The following article is based on the opinions expressed by the author, and do not necessarily reflect those of the Pendragon's Post staff. Thank you.In the name of Progress...O.K. let’s face it: Thing’s change, life changes, time marches on. When does what’s popular today become yesterday’s news? When did what we used to know become outdated? And when did the simple pleasures in life become so complex? It seems that in entertainment circles these days, there is a secret format war going on in the background with regards to printed Vs. digital comics. This war is not only being waged by publishers, but by fans also.
Now in prepping for this article, I felt I needed to split comic book fans into two groups: Comic book readers and comic book collectors. For myself, I fall into the average comic book reader category. My reading habits are as follows:
-I read the books I buy, but I am not hard core when it comes to preserving them.
-I enjoy them for entertainment value which the stories and the art provide, but I won’t go out of my way to find variant covers, first editions, or even bag them.
-And yes I do purchase digital comics for my smartphone.
But if someone did offer me a full color E-reader, about the same size as your average comic book , which would give me the same satisfaction as reading the printed version, then I would most likely take them up on that offer without hesitation. Why you may ask? Well for me it’s about affordability, access, and availability. If I can download a comic online for 99 cents to $1.50, and not have to hunt for it, I am sold. But that’s just me.
Now before anyone goes thinking that this was a one sided debate for me, it’s wasn’t. I used to fall into the other category, the comic book collector, and for years I used to be a slave to the long lost issue, the variants, and yes the longbox. Plus, besides the rare issues of some sliver age & golden age comics I did manage to find, most of my collection was modern comics and worth more to me sentimental wise than monetary. But the real clincher for me was after I turned 30, I started to realize I wanted more of a convenience than a collection. But I will admit, there is something to be said about actually holding a printed comic book in your hand, and nothing will be able to replace that.
However, just like the format changes which the music industry has gone through in the past decades, I feel progress doesn’t always mean obsolescence. In the last 30 years, we have gone from listening to music on vinyl records, 8 track tapes, cassette tapes, CD’s, to finally MP3’s. And I remember how less than a decade ago, critics had declared vinyl records long dead as a viable music format. But thanks to the efforts of those who wished to preserve and keep alive the vinyl record, this format has managed to make a comeback in this digital age.
And I feel the same way about comic books. There will always be a market for the printed comic book, although I believe in a more collector oriented market. But Digital comics do have their place also, and shouldn’t be so readily dismissed, or ignored.
Basically what it boils down to is a matter of personal choice. And as consumers we have that right. All we have to do is make our wishes heard, and keep the old traditions alive.
Ed Rondo
Senior Critic
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I came across this little tidbit of info while reading my comics this week, which kinda took me by surprise. According to his weekly DC Nation column, Senior V.P & Executive Editor of DC Comics Dan Didio has been having ongoing discussions with numerous Wonder Woman Fans about her importance in the DCU and the Trinity. To go along with this, some fans feel the current numbering system used for Wonder Woman’s monthly title should reflect her importance and longevity within not only the comic book community, but also the DC Universe. With both Batman and Superman closing in on Issue # 700, Wonder Woman would soon be at issue #600, if the old numbering system for her series had been maintained.Question is: Does Wonder Woman deserve a renumbering? And if so what can we do about it?
Personally I feel it does. Not only is Wonder Woman the First Lady when it comes to the DCU, but Comics in general. She deserves the same treatment as Superman and Batman, regardless of how her continuity has changed over the years. I do see where newer fans might be at a loss when it comes to accessing her past material for the first time, but that’s why it’s up to the writers to take what they have been given over the past 68 years, and integrate it into today.
So now begs the next question: What can we do if we want to see Issue # 600 of Wonder Woman?
Well Mr. Didio has the answer. He has said that if he receives 600 postcards in support of the 600th issue renumbering, then it shall happen. So in a quest to see if something like this is possible, I have included 4 easy steps on how to set up your postcard for mailing below, and I encourage those out there who have enjoyed Wonder Woman over the years, such as me, to send one in.
Mailing Instructions:
1). Pick out a Postcard (any kind will do, just try to be tasteful)
2). On the left hand side, write the following:
600: Wonder Woman issue 45 should start renumbering at #600
3). Remember to put your signature at the bottom of the postcard in order to make it count.
4). Mail to the following:
Dan Didio
c/o DC Comics, Inc.
1700 Broadway
New York, NY 10019
And you’re done. Just buy the postage needed and drop it in the mail.
And yes I know, the question of why did Mr. Didio choose an old fashioned postcards campaign over e-mails has come across my mind also? For me, it cause of the thought and effort put behind it. I mean come on, in this digital age anyone can send an email. It’s quick, simple, and effortless. But a post card actually requires you putting in the effort in writing, purchasing a stamp, and actually mailing your response. And after all these years of entertainment, don’t you think Wonder Woman is worth the effort?
I do.
Eddie R
Review Co- Editor
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Note: The following article is based upon the experiences and opinions of the writer of this article, and does not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of those associated with Pendragon’s Post.Thank you.Little Shop of.... Has this ever happened to you? You walk into a place where they sell comics, and you suddenly feel as if you’re more in a private members club rather than a comic book shop? I have, way too many times.
Now I am going to start off by saying that not every comic book store is like this. When I lived in the big city for over a decade, I guess you could say I was spoiled. I had about 10 comic book shops to choose from, and if I found one or two which did not suit my liking I would just stop going to them. I am a firm believer of “Shop with your feet & wallet”, meaning if you don’t like a certain store for whatever reason and you feel there’s no point in complaining, because nothing will be done to correct the situation, you try to find one that will meet your needs, and you give them your business. That’s called being a consumer. And yes, even comic book readers are considered part of that demographic.
O.K. I know the situation I mentioned above isn’t exactly ideal for everyone, especially those who live in a small or rural community, and have no other means to access the books they love, and who are at the mercy of the person behind the counter. Trust me, I grew up in the country and recently decided to move back to my hometown, and this type of situation is also all too familiar to me. I know a well stocked newsstand or magazine store cannot replace the charm and variety of a local comic book shop, and if you do have one in your small town, be lucky you do and please support them. These people are just like everyone else, and I do believe they try their best in order to accommodate and satisfy their customers. But there are some shops, and the owners who run them, which seem to foster an atmosphere of “member’s only”. As I said, in the big city that’s fine, you got more choice, but on a local level, this a completely different story.
The one thing has always puzzled me about these so- called “members only” comic shops, which seem to cater to a select few, is how can they stay in business if they seem to alienate their clientele so much? You would think the ones with bad customer service, ranging from dismissing or talking down to customers who have legit questions, to having a customer service style akin to consulting a brick wall, would actually want people to come in and buy from them, especially the local ones. I don’t know how many times I have walked into certain comic book shops where there seems to be a meeting going on around the cash counter, and the person behind the cash seems more interested in talking about how bad a book is in length, rather than actually letting the paying customers actually buy something . Or even more serious, you want to ask the clerk a question, but you have 5-10 guys there ready to pounce on you if you manage to say the wrong name of a book or character, and then have them rant and rave to the point where you just decided to walk out, without the owner or the clerk intervening. That stings, I know, I have been there.
I think the only solution to this dilemma is to demand better service from those shops which seem to want your cash, but not your physical presence in the store. Today in the 21st Century, we have a lot of choice when it comes to purchasing comic book material, the internet being the biggest advantage, especially when it comes to trade paper backs. It’s not uncommon to find TPB at an online bookstore for much less than the cover price. But you take a big chance because you’re not able to see what your purchasing beforehand. That’s where good customer service on the part of the Comic book shops will have to come into play if they want to retain their clientele.
Now I am not telling anyone to stop buying from their local comic book shop. That’s the last thing I want because they are in business for a reason, but what I would like my fellow readers to ask themselves is this. Does my local comic book shop meet my needs as a consumer? And if not, what can I, and the owners, do about correcting the situation?
You might be just as surprised as I was with the outcome.
Eddie R
Review Co-Editor
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Very Cliché.When fantasy and Sci- Fi collide, there has to be some common ground somewhere. If you get the balance just right, a tale of this genre can be quite an enjoyable read. If you get it wrong, it can just end up looking like another generic tale of how society managed to off itself, with a new one soon emerging, completely ignorant of its past, and riddled with a twisted mix of ultra science, magic, and superstition.
Set in a post-apocalyptic future with medieval overtones, Last Reign: Kings of War follows the tale of Lord Darious as he sets out on a quest to attempt to keep his kingdom, Shenan, from being invaded by the Sinclairian Empire. The Sinclairians are a race using the lost science of the past (genetic manipulation) in order to forge an army bent on world domination. On the other hand, Lord Darious is in possession of a suit of “great armor” which is in reality a high tech battle suit which has managed to survive the apocalypse. Although I must mention Lord Darious is not alone in possessing this armor, as seven other “chosen ones” have it also, but the true power behind this armor has been lost to the ages. Well, that is until Lord Darious sets out on quest to “the city of Kings” to find answers.
To me this type of plot, all related gimmicks, and Arthurian overtones have been used countless times in various other comic books, and even a few Saturday morning cartoons I remember fondly from my youth, some 25 years ago (Visionaries anyone??). Unfortunately here it’s not being used to its full potential, and no new concepts are brought to the story.
While it is full of myth, magic, monsters, and long forgotten science, this story seem to be more suited as a setting of a Dungeons and Dragons game rather than a comic book. And I feel that’s the target audience. Avid D&D gamers might enjoy this tale, but that’s about it.
Writer (s): Michael Alan Nelson, Walt Becker
Artist (s): Ed Estevez, David Miller
6.5/10
Eddie R
Review Co-Editor
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Good Cops, Bad CopsIt’s nice to see a classic team up story every once and a while. I had always found that when you paired Hal Jordan and Barry Allen together, you knew you were going to see some real good character interaction. With Barry basically being the good cop, and Hal being the bad cop, each plays off the other’s strengths and weaknesses quite well, and this story is no exception.
Green Lantern #43 continues to delve into the mystery which is Blackest Night, with The Flash Barry Allen and Green Lantern Hal Jordan, looking for clues as to why someone would desecrate the remains of one Bruce Wayne. But before they get too far into their investigation, the heroes get paid a visit from a certain undead Martian colleague, and fellow cop. The battle which follows is full of great action sequences, showcasing why Barry and Hal are the heroes they are. It also shows what kind of menace they are up against.
To me, the best gimmick of Blackest Night so far has to be the ability of the Black Rings to allow you to see which part of the emotional spectrum your opponents are part of. I guess this would allow a tactical advantage for the Black Lanterns, as you would be able to exploit this as a weakness, turning your enemies’ emotions against themselves. In the past this has proven effective to a certain degree, especially in the case of the Psycho Pirate, via the Medusa Mask. But now on such a universal scale, this emotional manipulation, coupled with the war of light, just makes this story more compelling. Not only are the heroes’ emotions being played with, but so are ours. And to me, that’s good writing on Geoff John’s part.
But like any good cop story, there has to be an equal balance of mystery and action, and if this issue is any indication of what’s in store for us with Blackest Night, this is going to be quite a ride.
8.5/10
Eddie R
Review Co-Editor
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Déjà - Vu AskewWhen a book advises you that it might be easier to read it backwards, you know you’re in for a good story, and that’s what you get here with Doctor Who: Room with a Déjà Vu #1. 
Taking place in a sector of the galaxy called the Dead zone, we find the Doctor on his latest solo adventure, confronted with receiving a mysterious distress signal from a cobbled together space station called the Great Refuge. It seems a plague of sorts has been affecting this sector of the galaxy for centuries, and this station is the result of the survivors finding one another. But not is all well on this station. There is an even deeper mystery as to why the Doctor would have received a distress call in the first place. Such transmissions are forbidden on the station due to the plague, but yet one has managed to be sent never the less.
Soon we learn there is has been a murder on the station, and the authorities enlist the aid of the Doctor in interrogating the alien responsible. Why the Doctor you may ask? Well let’s just say the alien in question is sort of a reverse Time Lord, and only someone with the doctor’s expertise would be able to interview him to find out if he is guilty of this crime or not. This leads of a brilliant sequence where you must read it in order to fully understand it. And I applaud the writer for pulling it off.
This is your standard Doctor Who adventure, complete with temporal paradoxes and all. The end of the story does foreshadow about something coming, and getting prepared for it. But until then, let’s continue with these well written adventures, and in the words of the Doctor himself “Allons-Y!”
8.5/10
Eddie R
Review Co-Editor
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Looking back in order to move forward As a loyal Star Trek fan, I am used to the scenario where within the space of one or two episodes, the entire Star Trek timeline gets altered in one way or another. Usually this is something localized, or having more of a widespread effect throughout the Federation. But usually, this altered timeline gets corrected and resolved within this one or two episode span. Hence a good story, but no major changes done to the overall Star Trek universe. This time around however, things are different.
Star Trek: Spock Reflections #1 deals with the aftermath of the recent continuity change surrounding Spock from the newest Star Trek film. What struck me the most was where the writers decided to begin this fill-in-the-blanks story: the aftermath of the death of Captain James T. Kirk, which in itself was very controversial when the seventh Star Trek movie, Generations, came out in 1994. But rest assured this matter, among others, is addressed quite tastefully in this issue.
The second flashback has to deal with Spock’s childhood on Vulcan. And I must say its pretty standard fair. All Trek fans know Spock had a hard time fitting in on Vulcan, being half human- half Vulcan himself, and this put quite a strain on his relationship with his father Sarek. This flashback deals with that strain in a bit more detail, but not much.
So the big question is does this series address the changes to Spock’s timeline as a result of what happened in the new Star Trek movie? I would have to say somewhat. But then again it’s only the first issue, and I do like what I have seen so far.
As I read this issue, it felt like this could be very easily made into a movie. You can sense the writers took great care in crafting a plausible scenario for this story to take place in, and build it upon the already well known history most Trek fans hold dear.
The only way of truly moving forward is looking back from where we came, and this first issue does just that.
8.5/10
Goes on sale July 22nd
Eddie R
Review Co-Editor
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The dead have risen…Over the years, I have been an avid reader of many of DC’s major events, starting with the Crisis on Infinite Earths, right up to the most recent universe-shattering storyline, Final Crisis. Now after months of speculation and build-up, the Blackest Night event has finally descended upon the DCU. But this time around, this event seems to feel more personal.
While I was reading through the pages of Blackest Night #1, I felt as if I was once again seeing a part of the DC Universe which I had not seen since the last major publicized “death” in the superhero world: the death of Superman back in 1994. For those who are too young to remember, there had never before been such an event as this, for a major character to die in the line of duty. I remember feeling really bad about the loss of the Man of Steel, but what touched me the most was seeing all the heroes mourning the passing of Kal-El. It seemed that as they grieved, we grieved also. The emotion which leapt off the page felt genuine, thus generating empathy. And it is that genuine feeling of emotions which I felt once again as I read this first issue of Blackest Night.
Now, I am not going to delve into the whole “who’s dead, who’s not?” aspect of the issue, which does have its place. Rather, I feel the main action sequences of the first issue have to with celebrating, honoring, and dealing with the memories of those heroes lost over the years. The reason for this has to do with the day which Superman was thought to have died. That date was originally turned into an annual national day of mourning, but after his return was turned into a day to honor those super heroes which had given their lives protecting this world, along with the innocents they had failed to protect. As we watch different ceremonies, both big and small, take place across the DCU celebrating this, we see how this sense of loss is being dealt with. It feels very personal, very emotional, and very real. And that’s the point.
Death is something which shouldn’t be treated lightly, and I feel this is exactly what was intended when conceiving Blackest Night. It’s not meant to be just another “event”. It’s much more. It feels as if after so much loss, the characters of the DCU now have to come to grips with this and their own emotions, but with the added twist of being stalked by something so sinister, it must remain in the shadows and prey upon its victims via their lost loved ones.
All I can say is for a first issue, Blackest Night does live up to the hype.
9/10
Eddie R
Review Co-Editor
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The Doctor is definitely in..You cannot know how overjoyed I was to hear the news of an ongoing Doctor Who series being published monthly by IDW Publishing, in conjunction with the BBC. Fellow Whovian’s on this side of the pond have been asking for this for ages now, and just like the good Doctor himself, this new ongoing series arrives just at the right moment to fill the void left after the departure of the Tenth Doctor, and the actor playing him, David Tennant.
I must admit Doctor Who #1 sets a pretty high standard for the rest of the series to follow. As you read the current issue, you get drawn into this adventure. You can feel the doctor’s presence. It has all the charm and wit of a tenth doctor adventure, without sacrificing anything. In essence, this is what the fans needed, and what they truly deserved, for their loyal dedication and following of the saga of the last of the Time Lords.
Now, the premise behind this issues ties directly into the Doctor Who TV series finale “The Stolen Earth”. It was during this adventure where the Doctor saved his companion at that time, Donna Nobel, from the devastating effects of the “biological metacrisis”, which turned her into the Doctor-Donna hybrid. Unable to live with the mind of a Time Lord, the Doctor had to wipe Donna’s memories to protect her from the effects of the metacrisis. But before doing so, she had one last request. And this adventure is the result of that final request, which the Doctor partakes in honour of Donna, which I find very fitting for a first issue.
But don’t be alarmed if you’re a newcomer to the Doctor Who Universe. Even though this story is loosely based on that past episode, someone who has never seen the series can easily get wrapped up in this amazing adventure. It’s that good. And it will make you want to see that episode, and perhaps the entire run of the Tenth Doctor. Because such is the fate of any Whovian: the end result makes you want to follow the Doctor anywhere. I should know.
9/10
Goes on sale July 15th
Eddie R
Review Co-Editor
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Dealing with loss..Red Robin #2 continues the four part “The Grail” storyline, where Tim Wayne is on the hunt for his missing adoptive father, Bruce Wayne. Of course Tim isn’t the only one looking for Bruce. Now joining in the hunt is Ra's al Ghul, whose motives are still unclear.
But now, another group has taken interest in Tim’s adventure. It seems the rest of the Batman Family has realized Tim has gone on this quest, and is trying to contact him via any means necessary, in order to stop Tim in this pursuit. They even send an emissary to try to convince Tim to come home and talk. But in Tim’s mind, the time for talk is over, and action is what’s needed. And there is defiantly enough of that to go around in this issue.
On the other hand, the talk which I do find affective is the self narrative Tim does throughout the book. It gives us an insight into the mind of a man, who is just trying to preserve what is left of the world he knows, after such a tragic loss. grief does strange things to people. It can make them irrational, unpredictable, and unreceptive to what’s really going on around them. But grief can also be a healing process, a time where one goes and looks for answers, both inwards and outwards, and allows a person to find the inner strength to deal with situations, which they never thought they had in the first place. I find this book is showing both sides of the effects of grief on equal footing. I feel Red Robin is Tim’s way of dealing with the loss of Bruce. But is also the means to find the answers, so Tim can have some sort of closure.
I just hope Tim doesn’t lose himself while on this quest. Because I defiantly loose myself every time I read this book.
8.5/10
Eddie R
Review Co-Editor
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Loophole. Sometimes we feel the little things are not important. That if something minor happens, nothing major will come out of it. Usually this is the case, but sometimes this minor mishap can be exploited and turned into something quite considerable, with unforeseen consequences. But in order for that to happen, one has to know where such a “loophole” lies, and be able to exploit it.
Booster Gold #22 takes us to a seemingly minor event in the DCU, and to be more specific the Teen Titans timeline, and allows us to see it be manipulated in order to create an alternate timeline. This allows the Black Beetle, and his mysterious associate, to set into motion a plan for a sneak attack against their main target, The Justice League of America. Of course this raises more questions than it answers. Why would someone want to attack the JLA via this manner? And who would have the expertise in order to pull off such a stunt?
As we watch Rip Hunter and Booster travel back to the event, we see flashes of the altered timeline, one where Batman’s partnered with Batgirl: Sinestro, as Green Lantern, is a founding member of the Justice League instead of Hal Jordan. And Ted Kord is a Red Beetle, instead of Blue. It seems this altered timeline wasn’t cause just by Robin’s death, but the death of the entire New Teen Titans Team. As Booster lands in the past and manages to not only gain access to the Titans, but also their trust, he confronts Black Beetle again. But this time Black Beetle is paired with the one man who has a serious mad-on for the Titans: Deathstroke, the Terminator.
Meanwhile back on Vanishing Point, Rip finds a device which is broadcasting information to the mystery man behind Black Beetle. Of course once Rip finds the device, its failsafe activates and incapacitates him, leaving Booster to hold his own against not one, not two, but three serious villains, who have managed to change history for the worst.
A great second act full of drama and action, but I do have one question: Where’s Raven?
8.5/10
Eddie R
Review Co-Editor
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Darker Matters..Death is a very touchy subject to deal with. It can be very enlightening, or very depressing. It can also be viewed as a release, or a trap, a blessing or a curse. Of course, this depends on the person who is dealing with whatever death is at hand. From personal experience, I have seen death treated as something which is both a taboo subject, never to be discussed openly, and as a celebration for the life of an individual, who has managed to accomplish so much in such a short time while in this world. Keeping that in mind as I read this prologue into Blackest Night, I find it ironic how no matter how dark this subject can get, there is always light to be found. But the reverse of this situation is also equally true.
Green Lantern #43 tells the back story of the man at the center of all this build up to Blackest Night: William Hand: a.k.a Black Hand. While I would consider this an origin issue, it goes beyond that. It puts everything into perspective, concerning the events we all have been reading for months now, leading up to this moment. We now understand why Black Hand is the way he is, making this character not only more human, but also making the subject of death a bit more human as well. The first page of this issue sets the tone for this event, as the dark guardian Skar reminisces about the eons which have passed, and all the history this one individual has witnessed. But now this one sole guardian must fulfill their destiny, as they partake in the birth of the first Black Lantern. But for there to be a birth, there also must be death.
And from the looks of it, Blackest Night is going to be full of both of them.
9/10
Eddie R
Review Co-Editor
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Well on her way to becoming Number One.One of the things I used to like about the Star Trek: the Next Generation TV series was the briefing meetings the Senior Staff used to have. It was those meetings which gave the show a sense of reality in my opinion, and I am glad John Byrne has managed to bring that feeling to this book. 
Star Trek: Crew #5 flash forwards three years from where the previous issue ended, where we find our female lieutenant is still serving aboard the U.S.S Enterprise alongside Captain Robert April, his wife Dr. Sarah April, and first officer Christopher Pike. Along with these old faces, we have a few new ones. I won’t say who they are, but it’s safe to bet the future bridge crew under Captain Pike will be taking shape very shortly.
The story itself is one which could be used for anyone one of the previous incarnations of the Star Trek TV franchise. But Mr. Byrne uses it very well here, and makes it his own. The plot revolves around the disappearance of entire solar systems and time travel, but it is the way Mr. Byrne draws the action sequences, and how the story is written, which makes you wish this comic book series would become an actual TV Show. But until that happens, this will have to satisfy any fan of the Original series. And trust me, it does.
All the little details are there; from the mention of Lithium Crystals to the term “Time warp factor”, which are both relevant to the time period, along with the little touches Mr. Byrne puts into the ships decor and crews uniforms. It is truly a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the mind. The colors and tones used are those which you would find in the original series, giving this book a very rich and nostalgic feeling.
Even though this book is set in the Pre- classical era of the original Star Trek universe, this series is bound to become a classic in its own right.
9/10
Goes On sale July 8th
Eddie R
Review Co- Editor.
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ShatteredGreen lantern Corps #38 to me is a fine example of how a comic book should end when a new story arc is just about to take over. While this issue leaves more us with more questions than it answers, the questions it does raise are quite valid, and set the tone for the upcoming Blackest Night event.
The biggest highlight of the issue has to be the showdown between Guy Gardener, Kyle Rayner and the Alpha Lanterns. A new order has been invoked by the returning Guardians, and the morality issues it raises not only will have fans wondering what has gone wrong, but it seems even the characters themselves. Kyle especially has a hard time trying to understand why this action is being taken. But I can see why the Guardians have asked the Alpha Lanterns to do such a task. Only a machine with no heart would be able to.
Intertwined between those major plot developments, we are given glimpses into the other story lines which have been part of this tale. On Korugar, we see the aftermath of Soranik’s encounter with her alleged father Sinestro, and how she is trying to come to grips with this revelation. We also witness the fallout from the transformation of the Daxamites due to being exposed to the rays of a yellow sun, as Arisia leads an all out assault on Mongul, causing him to change both his base and course of action.
But for me, the most telling scene of things to come happens when the battery shell surrounding Oa breaks apart at the beginning of this issue. This one act, exposing the planet to the rest of the universe, and the symbolism it implies as something seeming indestructible lies in ruin, is very much a perfect example of foreshadowing. It is here where Guy Gardener makes a very astute observation: “Anything that gets made can be unmade”. And I think that once sentence sums up this current issue of GLC and the conclusion to the Emerald Eclipse story arc.
8.5/10
Eddie R
Review Co-Editor
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Very Absorbing.Solomon Grundy #5 continues to unfold the mystery behind the cursed swamp creature, and how his salvation might play a very important role in the upcoming Blackest Night event. Deep within Slaughter swamp, the battle between the android Amazo and Grundy continues. And what a battle it is.
After a stalemate slug fest, Amazo does what he does best and begins to analyze a way to replicate Grundy’s powers. Realizing Grundy is drawing energy from the swamp itself, Amazo absorbs the unknown trace chemical elements which grant Grundy his power, but this has unforeseen complications on both the Android and his creator Professor Ivo, who watches his plans for revenge unfold on the planet beneath him from the sanctity of a private space station. But little does Ivo know that the observer is being spied upon himself by a third party, who seems to have taken an interest in Grundy’s current situation.
Meanwhile in the suburbs of Gotham City, we witness Alan Scott trying to reassemble his shattered lantern and contain the Green Flame of Life, which has managed to embed itself into other surrounding vessels. Alan has been able to tame and master the Green Flame due to years of exposure to it. But this site to behold is interrupted by an unknown noise far off in the distance. That same noise turns out to be an explosion, which is also observed by Bizzaro, on the opposite side of town, who has been a lost soul since his new best friend Solomon Grundy disappeared. As Bizzaro begins to fly to Grundy’s aid, he is taken down by the science police, whose motives are not known yet.
Finally we cut to Valhalla Cemetery, the heroes graveyard , where the Phantom Stranger requests not only an audience with the Spectre, but also answers as to what is going on concerning Blackest Night, and who might possibly be involved.
This issue had a lot of stuff to take in, both visually and story wise. As the miniseries winds down I can see it finally picking up speed, and I hope this pace can be maintained and built upon, right until the very end.
8.5/10
Eddie R.
Review Co- Editor.
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All about Justice.For a while now, both old and new fans of the Justice League have been on what I would call, to put it mildly, a roller coaster ride. After the events in Infinite crisis, where the Leagues original timeline and line-up were re- established as cannon in the DCU, to the darkening tone left on the League after Identity Crisis, the JLA has been in a sort of limbo. Yes, there was a new team, a new base (two in fact if you count the Hall of Justice) and a new direction. But somewhere, somehow, things got stalled. But if anyone knows their history of the JLA, this is just another incarnation which has come to pass, giving way to something much needed and more relevant. And it’s about time.
Justice League: Cry for Justice #1 opens with a meeting. On one side you have Hal Jordan, who is tired of the way Justice has been denied for those heroes who have fallen in the line of duty, and how the villains of the DCU seem to get away without being prosecuted for their crimes. On the other side, you have the rest of the JLA, who believe that the method of justice which Hal seeks borders on revenge, which is something the JLA will not stand by and support. The only one to side with Hal is Oliver Queen, a.k.a Green Arrow. Oliver feels the same way, but is just not being as vocal about it, which I find ironic because this is something Oliver used to do in the Old JLA comics of the silver and bronze age.
As we then cut to various scenes across the DCU, we bear witness to a series of events which make one start to believe Hal Jordan isn’t the only hero who feels justice isn’t being served properly. Ray Palmer, Mikkal Tomas (Starman III), and Congorilla all have similar epiphanies, leading one to think this disenchantment might be more widespread than first thought.
Now, the scenes and dialogue with Oliver and Hal after leaving the JLA meeting, are very reminiscent of the “Hard-Traveling Heroes” era in Green Lantern’s comic history (GL Volume 2: # 76- 89). At that time( early 1970’s) it was felt that comics needed to get away from the campiness which had become the industry standard, and go more towards comics which were socially relevant for the times. Thanks to the efforts of Denny O'Neil and Neal Adams, the concept became widely accepted, ushering a new age in comics. I personally feel James Robinson, who has now been named the official writer for the ongoing JLA monthly, is steering this version of the team into that direction, and I applaud him for it. For me, the JLA has been a big ship without a captain, going in circles for way to long now. And if anyone can chart this ship though some very choppy seas, and come out still in one piece, it’s him.
Question now is, are fan’s willing to go along for the voyage, or will they bail? All I know is I got both my boarding pass and life jacket in hand, just in case.
8.5/10
Eddie R
Review Co-Editor
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Well done.Star Trek 2: The Wrath of Khan#3 opens right at the best part of the movie: the hunt /chase scene between the U.S.S Enterprise and the U.S.S Reliant in the Mutara nebula. The static discharges from the nebula make the sensors on both ships inoperative, leaving them both evenly matched, and essentially blind. You can feel the tension between the two ships, and their respective captains, as they search for one another within the gas cloud. I must admit the art here really captures this feeling. The colors and shading used here really draw the movie and the book together.
Once inside the nebula, Kirk uses Khan's inexperience with three-dimensional combat to basically cripple the Reliant. With his dying breath, Khan activates the Genesis Device, which once detonated will reassemble all the matter in the nebula. This includes the Enterprise.
Even though the crew of the Enterprise detects the activation of the Genesis device, they are unable to escape the oncoming Genesis wave with just impulse power. With few moments to spare, Spock hurries to Engineering to restore the warp drive. When McCoy tries to stop Spock from exposing himself to high levels of radiation from the warp core, Spock incapacitates the doctor and does a mind meld, telling McCoy to “remember”. Once inside the dilithium chamber, Spock manages to restore power to the ship, allowing the Enterprise to escape the oncoming Genesis wave. But this act of heroism does have its price.
Now, no matter how many times I look at the movie, I always get choked up a bit at the end, as we watch Jim Kirk see his best friend die before his eyes, then deal with the aftermath which follows. To me, this is just one of many parts to an amazing story, and this comic book adaptation does justice to it all.
The only thing which surprised me though in this issue was Spock’s death scene. I honestly don’t remember Spock mentioning about this act of heroism being his “Kobayashi Maru”, the no-win situation used to test the character of Starfleet officers, during his death scene in the film. Granted this does make sense, and I am really glad they included it here. Its gems like this which make this book a very enjoyable read, and one great comic book adaptation.
8/10
On sale July 1st.
Eddie R
Review Co-Editor
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As real as it getsTo me, this issue of Justice Society is exactly why I like the series. Even though sometimes it does get bogged down with either some very campy storylines, or polar opposite ones which have darker overtones, there is one thing which is consistent: It feels real and believable.
Justice Society of America # 28 opens with the dramatic exit of the Spectre and the rest of the JSA, who are crossing over to a limbo, where the missing JSA members from the previous issue are being held by Kung. The way the news media, outside the JSA headquarters, acts when they see this grand exit is exactly what I would expect to happen. I mean, it’s kind of hard to ignore a pink elephant in the room, especially if he’s The Spectre.
As for the JSA members who were abducted, they are having a hard time trying to figure out if they really have been transported to the middle of the Second World War, or is it just an illusion created by Kung? All their senses say that this feels real, but is it? And if it is, will this adventure do any damage to the timeline?
The best part of this issue for me was the revelation of how Kung and the Spirits got out of their limbo in the first place. I enjoyed seeing how a previous storyline was tied into this one, and how the spirits escape route was well planned out. Even the vessel, which Kung chose once as a means of convenience, seemed to feel appropriate. Although I am surprised at how out of all the members of the Marvel Family, Kung chose the oldest and most unreliable. No wonder he had to change bodies again.
Another highlight for me was to see the Spectre return to the JSA. There is just something electric about him which feels right when he is working with this group. And I feel that it is this spark which is the only thing lacking in the JSA roster. With so many new recruits coming aboard, I guess I long for a touch of something familiar.
The end of the story is a bit heartbreaking though , as Atom Smasher tells Stargirl something which she doesn’t want to hear, but must accept. Atom Smasher must accept the reality of this situation also, but you can tell that even though the story might say “The End” in the final panel on the page, it feels like it really isn’t in this case.
8/10
Eddie R
Review Co-Editor
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Crisis AvertedJustice league of America #34 is the conclusion to “The Dharma Initiative” storyline.Finally coming face to face with Starbreaker, the JLA manages to pull itself together long enough in order to take down the Cosmic Vampire. It is during this battle where we learn some interesting background information about Starbreaker: The larval state of his species is apparently what we would call a Sun Eater. And this revelation is what I would call the highlight of this entire story arc.
Another development I would like to point out is the female Dr. Light seems to be cured of her fear of darkness. Now, I have always felt this was kind of an ironic situation. You have someone with complete control over the power of Light, but yet was fearful of what lurked in the shadows. To me, that doesn’t do much for the character. However, I am very happy to see how Dr. Light has evolved during this story arc. She appears to be much stronger and more confident, almost to a point where she could possibly lead the team. But with everything being up in the air at the moment, I have my doubts this would ever come to pass.
As for the conclusion of the story, I have to say it feels weak and over used. A Crisis on Infinite Earths type of merger between two parallel worlds should only be used on a grand scale, not as an afterthought in order to conclude, or explain a badly written storyline. I have a hard time believing Dharma has that kind of power and skill in order to do something like this , which BTW I have only seen one other DC character be able to pull off and make it believable: The Spectre.
I just hope now that since this Crisis has been averted, the next major one will actually bring some concrete results.
6.5/10
Eddie R
Review Co-Editor
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Not just full of fluff.In this day and age, when everyone is fearful of big brother watching over their shoulder, and the triumphs and pitfalls of technological advancement seem to be in the news every day, it’s not hard to imagine how a simple computerized children’s toy could be turned into a possible weapon. Usually Artificial intelligence is portrayed as being soulless, cold, and very calculating. I am glad to say that Mr. Stuffins #3 by BOOM! Studios show us that anyone can override their basic programming, and become something much more in the end.
Now for a bit of back story: Mr. Stuffins used to be a run-of- the- mill interactive toy teddy bear, until he accidentally gets installed with an experimental artificial intelligence, granting him the abilities of some of the world’s most deadly spies and assassins. Now I bet your wondering what does this A.I. do to Mr. Stuffins exactly? Well, it basically turns him into a kind of furry Dirty Harry. But appearances can be deceiving. I mean yes Mr. Stuffins might be gruff, tough, and an excellent shot, but he pulls it all off while still looking cute. Now that’s my kind of toy.
As the story progresses, Mr. Stuffins soon realizes he needs to protect Zack, the boy who recently bought him from the local toy store, from the bad guys who are on the hunt for Mr. Stuffins , and the missing A.I. disc. Along the way, Mr. Stuffins, Zack, and the rest of Zack’s family discover that they are all much more than what they seem, and what they are truly capable of accomplishing.
What really surprised me about this book was how the A.I had given Mr. Stuffins such a strict moral code. Whether or not this is a by product of the bears original programming merging with the A.I is hard to tell. The scientist who created the A.I mentions at the end of the book how he intended it to be used to help people, and in the end, you can see how much Mr.Stuffins cares for Zack, and vice-versa. This is especially true when Mr. Stuffins goes and sacrifices himself in order to save Zack’s family. But this saving goes much deeper than a simple rescue from the bad guys. I must admit it’s very rare I get emotionally touched by a book, but this one did it to me at the end. And I am glad for it.
This book is one where there is something for everyone to enjoy, making reading the series an experience to be shared, or read as a guilty pleasure. I would have to say I personally fall into the second category.
9/10
On sale July 1st
Eddie R
Review Co- Editor
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