Happy Thanksgivings...
Hope all of you have a great Thanksgivings Day. Please be nice to each other tomorrow on Black Friday. More posts and reviews to come.

BREAKING NEWS...
In the realm of who gives a care... Brtiney and K-fed filed for divorced. They report "irreconcilable differences." Like she was rich and sucessfil and he was just white trash.

It is a Wild, Wild, Wildstorm.

Reading in comics in the 90’s, WIldstorms was one of the production groups that I really enjoy. I loved reading Wildcats, Stormwatch, Wetworks and Gen13. To hear they were re-launching the Wildstorm universe I was pretty psyched.

Wildcats #1:
The original title from Wildstorm is back. with Jim Lee and Grant Morrison at the helm. After some a delay or too… (Like All-Stars Batman & Robin), it has finally come out this month.

“Jim Lee makes his triumphant return to Wildcats, and he's bringing along an impressive new collaborator: superstar writer Grant Morrison! The man who redefined the JLA and Superman - and created groundbreaking works The Invisibles and WE3 - now brings his considerable talents to the Wildcats. In the aftermath of the events in Captain Atom: ARMAGEDDON, the WildStorm Universe has undergone a shift that will affect characters big and small. This first issue will reintroduce the Wildcats you know and love - but how will they differ?”

Jim and Grant delivered a solid book this month. I enjoy how they has not choose to ignore prior continuity in these characters. This issue is the standard first issue with for more or less introduction to the world and updating the reading. Like most of the world, the last issue I read of Wildcats was probably when Jim Lee was drawing it originally. I have a sense that they are going to bring Wildcats back as a Covert Action Team and no longer a corporate organization. RATINGS: STORY- 7/10 ART 8/10

Wetworks #1-2:
Vampires, werewolves, naked humans with golden symbiotes, and of course the evil government agency… welcome to the world of Wetworks. Believe it or not, I really enjoy this title during the first run. With Whilce Portacio back, this is going to be a fanboy’s wet dream or nightmare…

“Fan-favorite artist Whilce Portacio's legendary special forces team returns in classic fashion, aided and abetted by acclaimed writer Mike Carey (HELLBLAZER, LUCIFER)! Dane, team leader of Wetworks, is on a mission. He's forming a new team with the best of the worst. It's a bad world, filled with vampires, werewolves and all manner of nasty creatures. Someone's got to keep them in line. That's Wetworks' job - and it's not going to be easy.”

Oh the nightmare! I rarely say a comic is awful. But this is bad, enough to ask for my money back. This issue has lots of problems and I’m so stunned and confused after reading this title… I just know I did not like it. RATINGS: STORY- 2/10 ART- 6/10

The Authority #1:
I really was never into the Authority the first time. At the time, the deconstruction of superheroes was not my cup of tea. Now that I am older, I do enjoy some forms of it. So I decide to this title a spin.

“The WorldStorm rollout continues with the return of the most dangerous super-group on the planet! Grant Morrison, the universally acclaimed writer of All Star Superman, Seven Soldiers and Wildcats brings his talents to the new bimonthly series THE AUTHORITY, featuring art by Eisner Award-winner Gene Ha (TOP 10)! Morrison & Ha deliver an unparalleled sense of drama and dynamic storytelling to The Authority that will leave readers gasping for breath. The first issue starts with a bang and goes up from there, reintroducing the team with intriguing new twists and revelations!”

Unfortunately, I really don’t think I can fully discuss this issue. I was very disappointed with this issue. This issue showed lots of random scenes that will probably be setup for something really clever. With price of comics so high these days, I was hoping for something more. It is like paying $10 to see a movie and getting to see a teaser instead of the movie. If I continue to read this one, it is going to be in trade form and I would probably enjoys Grant’s storytelling more. RATINGS: STORY 3/10 ART 5/10.

GEN 13 #1:
Were you into the Gen13 hype back in the day? Did you try to get one of the 13 variant covers of issue one? Did you have a pin-up of Fairchild on your wall? I know you did….

“A new generation of adventure begins as superstar writer Gail Simone (Birds of Prey, Villains United) and artists Talent Caldwell & Matt "Batt" Banning (Wildcats: Nemesis) join forces to reimagine the classic WildStorm teen team! The life of a teenager can be a strange enough experience, but when super-powers are added to the mix things get a whole lot more confusing in a hurry! Meet Caitlin, Sarah, Roxy, Bobby, and Eddie - outcast teenagers from different parts of the country who quickly learn they all have something in common: abilities far beyond those of their classmates! But what's the secret to these wonderful and scary powers, and what role do the nefarious Tabula Rasa and International Operations play?”

This is probably the best of the lot. I love the work Gail Simone does and I think having a female writer will make this comic more that T&A for the preadolescent male. Already in this issue, I sense more attachment for these characters than in the past. Talent Caldwell and Matt Banning’s art really does shine in this issue- very Humberto Ramos-sque. RATINGS: STORY- 8/10 ART-8/10

Overall, this version of Wildstorm is alright. I plan to continue getting Wildcats and Gen 13. I’m dropping Wetworks and going to do a wait and see in the Authority. As for the other titles, I heard Deathblow was very good and might give it a try. Stormwatch PHD and the the Midnighter will come out latter this month.

Halloween has come and gone…
Sorry with the big delay between post. I have been finishing up a big project that has been devouring all my time. Hopefully now I can spend a few more moments with my precious blog. My October shipment also came this week more specially on Halloween. Now that is what I call a special treat….

Bart Simpson Treehouse of Terror #12 :
What is Halloween without a Halloween book? When this comics was first solicited, they were come great comic book creators attach to the comic: Terry Moore from Strangers in Paradise, Kyle Baker from Plastic Man and Eric Powell from the Goon. They are creators that I love and enjoy their regular work..

"This year's annual THOH Comic was released yesterday. Three Eisner Award-winning masters of humor comics team-up to tell some wildly wicked and devilishly delightful Halloween howlers. Join Kyle Baker (Why I Hate Saturn, Plastic Man) as he takes a gentle fairy tale and turns it into a bloody rampage in the hands of Bart Simpson. Then Terry Moore (Strangers in Paradise) revisits the biblical story of Noah's Ark, but in this tricked-out version Homer is encouraged to build an ark so that God can exterminate all the cockroaches. And finally, Eric Powell (The Goon) provides a harrowing tale of crazed Groundskeeper Willie, hellishly bent on avenging his prized emu."

With all this hype and talent, I was not impressed. It was a good issue, but it was lacking something. Perhaps it was the art and how each artists , except for Eric Powell took their best approach to drawing the characters. (Eric Powell’s art was perfect for this issue: Scary and gritty for a horror book.) But I don’t think it was just that. It was more the stories themselves. They were lacking the cohesiveness that Simpson’s show routinely puts out. I wish that had a regular Simpson’s story writer was there to help guide them. RATINGS: STORY- 4/10 ART-5/10 (except for Eric Powell’s section was a 10.)

Project Runway + Comic Superheroes = Project Rooftop.

Take one part superheroes from your favorite comics and another part of your favorite remake show... you get Project Rooftop. Talented artist from all over the web take ordinary superheroes and make them new again.

Annihilation #2, Civil War #4, and Ultimate Spiderman #100

Just got my monthly comics in and it was big month. Some of the most anticipated came out this month. I decide to hit 3 of Marvel’s titles first this month.

Annihilation #2:
The first issue was fun and chaotic at the same time, sort like jumping in one of those air bouncy things filled with colorful balls at the carnival. You are jumping around with those things flying around without a much of sense of going on. You only truly start enjoying your time when you let go and over past the organize play. With Annihilation, there is a lot going on. For many of the older readers like me, we get bog down in continuity and having to know exactly what happened in each character’s life. Once you get past that and realize that the writer Keith Giffen is going to show everything you need to know, you can fully immerse in the fun.

"The United Front led by NOVA, RONAN and DRAX have held, but only just. ANNIHILUS' forces have been fought to a standstill. But can any defense withstand the devastating attack of RAVENOUS and the CENTURIONS?"

The second issue continues the fast and furious action. And again it presents as an enjoyable read. It seems like everything Giffen has touched recently has turn to gold and this is no exception. This series is awesome and worth picking up (especially it comes out on time). Andrea Divito does yeomen work as a penciler which reminds me of Ron Lim’s stuff. A special mention to the colorist, Laura Villari has to be made. Her work really makes Devito’s art comes off the page. RATINGS: STORY- 9/10 ART- 8/10

Civil War #4:
Well, was it worth the wait? It was so are to avoid my favorite blogs this month, because I just did not want to spoil the big surprise. By the time this is published, it should be about 3 weeks after Civil War #4 was released. So I’m going to spoil everything…

"A death! A funeral! A betrayal! And a team reborn as the war takes a deadly turn!"

So in this issue, we find out that they have cloned Thor and using him as the ultimate anti-hero weapon. (With the new series coming out soon, I hope they don’t make him the … hero who is trying to find his soul crap… like Vision, Red Tornado or Star Trek’s Data.) Thor goes Dirty Harry and kills Goliath (the death) and almost kills Captain America’s team if it wasn’t for Sue Storm (the betrayal). Capt’s team escapes and the fallout begins again. They have a funeral for Goliath. Heroes on both sides quit including Sue and Johnny Storm. Because Tony Stark’s rank has thinned, he plan to use criminals with mind control chips ala Thunderbolts style as anti-registration hunters….

To get Steve McNiven art, it was worth the wait. The art is gorgeous. The story is good, but kinda formulaic… RATINGS: STORY- 7/10 ART 9/10

Ulitmate Spiderman #100
Last time, all I did was rave on the greatness of this book. This book was the most anticipated of the month….

"A true milestone for Peter Parker, Ultimate Spiderman and the Ultimate line-our double-sized 100th issue celebration! Chock full of secrets that date back to the book's beginning-finally, chillingly revealed! And there are three-count 'em three-mind-staggering shock endings. It's the Spider-Man event of the year with an exclusive look back at the series with Brian Micheal Bendis and Mark Bagley."

Unbelievable, Brian Micheal Bendis is a mastermind. This issue blew me away. Because BMB was on this title for so long he was able to carefully weave and direct this title to this point. Like a pimple coming to a head and ready to be popped. Past story arcs were clues to where he ultimately had plan for Spiderman, very reminiscent of Chris Claremont did on his great run on Uncanny X-men in the 70-80’s. I won’t be spoiling anything here, but I can’t wait to read what happens next. RATINGS: STORY- 10/10 ART- 8/10

Rebooted... and looking good in some cosmic pants.

One of my favortie website, The Fourthrail announced that they were closing shop. But the creator had some good news too. They were moving their creative and insightful reviews to Cosmic Pants. Today they released their monthly "Down the Line" article that highlights some of the what Previews has to offer.

Damn you podcasting!

Well, last month I posted that I was not planning to buy the Friendly Neighborhood Spiderman #14. But after listening to Peter David on About Heroes' podcast, he convince me to go ahead to purchase that issue. So I'm going to throw my hard earned $3.00 your way.

I recently got an Ipod and have discovered podcasting which has increased my monthly spending on comics. Podcast is another medium for comics artist and writers to the word out on their products. A lot of time they provide tid bits of information that can't be found in the solicitation blurb in Previews.

For example on Friendly Neighborhood Spiderman #14- "It's the return of Peter Parker's old flame, Deb Whitman! Unfortunately for Peter, she's written a tell-all memoir about her relationship with him, entitled "How Spider-Man Ruined My Life." Ouch! As if that weren't bad enough, the Vulture has been set loose from prison to scavenge for Spider-Man, but who's behind his release and what nefarious scheme do they have up their sleeve?"

Initially, the blurb did nothing for me. I had no idea who was Deb Whitman was and had little interest in the Vulture. So based on the lines from Preview, I was not going to order these issue and was planning to drop the issue. Then comes the About Heroes' podcast with Peter David. In the podcast, he briefly mentions the F-N Spidey and that was enough for me to order it. Deb Whitman was apparently an old girlfriend of Peter Parker that uses to date in high school. Peter drove Deb crazy between his secret identity and Spiderman. Peter David plan to run crazy with this story, plus throwing some unexpected twist like Betty Brant (another old girlfriend) in to the mix.

Again damn you podcasting...

First you tear my heart out....

Then you build me an new one. It has been a roller coaster week. Brian K Vaughan and Adrian Alphona announced they were leaving the book. I was sad. But Brian had an ace in his sleeve. He had hand picked his replacement, which was interesting... it was interesting that he had chosen Josh Whedon (Sweetiness!). Micheal Ryan was also coming on the book, which make it a double awesome! I love his art on Excalibur. My only concern is if this comic will maintain its monthly status.

Say it ain't so...

Well after the big news from Ultimate Spiderman and Mark Bagely, comes more bad news for Marvel fans. Creators Brian K Vaughan and Adrian Alphona are leaving the Runaways after issue 24. Brian announced on his message board before the official message from Marvel. (Kinda odd that they wouldn't stay for the 25th issue.) They will be surely missed and whoever attempt to fill their shoes got some big shoes to fill.

Ultimate Spiderman #98, 99 and Annual 2:

My month’s comics came in yesterday and boy did I get a lot of Ultimate title. I received: Ultimate Fantastic Four #32, 33 and Annual #2; Ultimates Annual #2; Ultimate X-men #76 and Annual #2; Ultimate Spiderman #98, 99 and Annual 2. That is nine issue of Ultimate title to read this month…

Ulitmate Spiderman #98 & 99
The clone wars storyline continues...

Spidey is reeling from the exposure of the Scorpion's unbelievable identity. But even that pales besides the string of revelations awaiting him such as: Who kidnapped Mary Jane and what does he/she want? Who does Spider-Man struggle against in the old warehouse where he fought his first battle? Who is waiting for him in the house in Queens he and his Aunt May abandoned recently? Your jaw will drop and your mind will go numb when you learn the solution to these mysteries. And the world of Peter Parker will never be the same.

Boy, does the solicitation description hits that these issue on the nail! Brian Michael Bendis and Mark Bagley are really turning the Ultimate Spiderman universe around. At the end of issue 99 left me in awe and screaming "oh my jim-who-icky-monkey- slappy- butthole…" And let me say that I have only said that phrase once in my life. You will be absolutely shocked with this roller coaster ride. I can’t wait to see how they finish this series with issue #100. This is a must read. RATINGS: STORY- 10/10 ART 9/10

Ultimate Spiderman Annual #2
While Foggy Nelson offers Spidey some legal advice, Police Captain Jean DeWolfe gives him some other advice...on how to take down the Ultimate Kangaroo! Will Peter Parker be able to navigate his way through this all-action moral maze? And more to the point...will Punisher just shoot him instead?

Last years annuals were not very good in my opinion, so going into this issue I was ready to be disappointed... and of course, I was wrong. Instead I was wowed, the writing of Bendis again. This issue really feels like a well made action movie. It was follow up of the "Warriors" storyline and interjected throughout the story was a little back story on what has happened between the "Warriors" storyline and now. The flashbacks really added the movie feel to the story. And of course Mark Brooks’s art really shined and executed the feel to perfection. RATINGS: STORY-9/10 ART-9/10

The "Crocodile Hunter" killed.
Steve Irwin was one of my heroes when I was growing up. He was killed by a stingray. It's tail pierced his chest and through his heart. Rest in piece.... CRIKEY

Star Wars Legacy #2:

I just finished reading Star Wars Legacy and it is fun. Out of the new re-launch of Star Wars comics this one is the most intriguing of the bunch. While Knights of the Old Republic deals with the Jedi past and Rebellion is set between episode 4 and 5, Dark Times immediately after episode #3, this series happens 125 years after episode 6.

More than a hundred years have passed since the events in Return of the Jedi and the days of the New Jedi Order. There is a new evil gripping the galaxy, shattering a resurgent Empire and seeking to destroy the last of the Jedi. Even as their power is failing, the Jedi hold to one final hope: the last remaining heir to the Skywalker legacy who doesn’t want any part of the Jedi legacy.

The Star Wars geek in me loves the concept. The Imperials and the Sith are at war with each other. The New Jedi Order is on the run. The last Skywalker is a dirty bounty hunter. What is there not to love? Easily, this series is going to feel like an excellent episode of Joss Wheldon’s Firefly, which is a good thing. John Ostrander and Jan Duursema are the creators and I can give any more respect to them. I like the direction and I love the concept. Now go and read this comic. RATINGS: STORY- 9/10 ART- 8/10

Spoiler Glore!
If you read Spiderman titles, there is a nasty rumor floating around comics. Click on the link below to the possible major spoiler link. Then check out Mike Wieringo's thoughts on this issue.

Well, I hate change…

Earlier this week, Marvel released their November solicitations and there has been some unexpected changes in the artist department. For many of comic titles, I am tied to the artist and only buying them because my favorite artist is on that title. Two of my regular monthly pulls are having artist changes. Scott Eaton is taking over the art chores for Mike Wieringo’s on Friendly Neighborhood Spiderman and while Mike Deodato Jr is replacing for Gary Frank on Squadron Supreme. No disrespecting for the incoming artist, but I will miss the outgoing artist. I’m not sure if these new guys will be able to keep me buying their respective titles. I got a month to make a decision and maybe I’ll see some previews to change mind… Maybe I'll shift some of my money to the cool What If? titles coming out.

Bunny porn in 30 seconds....
Just kidding. Angry Alien Production has created a 30 seconds of pure genius by combining movies (no porn) and rabbits. They have taken classic and made them new again. You can watch movies like Jaws, Star Wars, Casablanca, and Titanic. The latest feature is Raiders of the Lost Ark. Hop over there and check it out.

Arizona State University (ASU) W.P. Carey MBA
This off topic, but I thought I would help with this fellow blogger's plight. Read this link.

Beware....
When are in the parking lot and making out... be careful.

Oh baby hit me one more time...
Or not... CNNSI.com reports that a minor league baseball team, Newark Bears are having a child safety night. They are calling it "Britany Spears Baby Safety" night. There is free admission for those that bring a real baby, or baby toy, or dress like a baby. They are going to provide car seat safety information. Also they hinted a special guest that was going to sing and dance would be there.
For those who don't remember, Britany earlier had placed her son improperly in the car seat and almost dropping her son on his head.

You Want to Be a Superhero?
I am a reality TV junkie. I will be the first to admit it. I have a problem. So when I heard Sci-fi channel was having a reality show about superheroes, I was really geeked out. When I heard Stan Lee was involved with it, I got really, really geekd out.

I was finally able to watch the show yesterday and let me say it is pretty awesome. It is different than most other reality competitions. In Survivor / Amazing Race type, it is about athleticism, intelligence, and guile. In the shows like Top Chef and Project Runway, the focus is one skills and creativity. Here the show focuses on skills of a superhero, but since there are no superpowers in the real world, the show focuses on character traits, which was a new concept for me. Stan Lee plan to base his show on judging courage, character, honesty, integrity, self-sacrifice, compassion, resourcefulness.
Hopefully it will level the playing field for the non-athletic types.

The cast included Tobias Trost as Levity, Jonathan Finestone as Rotiart, Tonya Kay as Creature, Chris Watters as Major Victory, Steel Chambers as The Iron Enforcer, Mary Votava as Monkey Woman, Nell Wilson as Fat Momma, Darren Passarello as Nitro G, Chelsea Weld as Cell Phone Girl, Matthew Atherton as Feedback, E. Quincy Sloan as Tyveculus, and Tonatzin Mondragon as Lemuria.

The first episode was a hoot and with lots of patent Stan Lee’s comic twists. I enjoyed this episode and looking forward to the next. You Want to Be a Superhero? comes on Sci-fi channel Thursday 8PM central with multiple re-airing during the week… By the way I’m rooting for Fat Momma.

Another funny video:
Here is a funny commerical about cleaning. Found it on video google.

Grounded #2-6:
While I am waiting for my new shipment of comics to arrive with Civil War and OYL goodness, I have decided to thumb through some comics that I haven’t read. One of them was the series Image’s Grounded. I was putting off reading this comic because I was missing issue 1, but for some reason I decided to read them anyway.

The good news: Superheroes are real. The bad news: You're not one of them. When Jonathan is sent to a high school for super-powered teens, he's forced to abandon his dream of having powers and deal with the reality that he's the only kid without them.

Missing the first made it abit tricky to learn all the characters, but it was a great read. This comic has its moments with witty and inventive solutions. I also enjoy on Mark Sable’s take on the teenage superpowered beings. He understands that teenagers don’t want to take responsibility yet in life and want to enjoy life first. So in one scene in issue 3#, Jonathan is getting pounded by the hologram robbers and his classmates all flee instead of fighting. Jonathan gets upset and asked why they aren’t acting like heroes. The answer was quite shocking to Jonathan. They don’t want to be heroes. They rather dream up schemes to use their power to become rich and famous instead.

I love the art. It fits well with the comic and very stylish. But again the writing is what stands out in this series. I did not enjoy Wildstorm’s take on high school life with the Intimates. I know that there are different types of stories. Intimates is more of a slice of life piece and Grounded was more typical straight story. But so me the characters from Grounded were more appealing and interesting. Either way, I highly recommend this series in 6 floppies or trade…now I got to find someone with issue #1. RATINGS: STORY-9/10 ART-7/10

Casanova #1 and Paul Jenkins' Sidekick #1:
Osh-gosh-mc-gosh... look a review on a non- Marvel or DC floppy. I am going to some unfamiliar boundaries with reviewing a couple of new Image series: One with a hefty price tag and another with a wallet friendly one. Recently I was listening to a podcast from those guys at Around Comics and they were addressing the problems with rising prices of single issues and not able to try new comics because of it. People are more reluctant to buy new series because of the increasing price per issue of comics. It is an understandable fear. Why waste $4 on a comic that could suck? Here is going to the comic book store weekly really helps. When you go to your local comic store, you can thumb through the pages and sort of "try" the comic out, one of the big advantages of visiting your local store. So go visit you local comic store. Now back to your review…

Casanova #1: This comic has a cover price of $1.99, very wallet friendly, so I order it and guess what I like it.
Meet Casanova Quinn: scoundrel, thief and international man of leisure. The death of his twin sister ignites a cosmic blackmail scheme that forces Cass into the mind-bending life of a super-secret agent. Realities smash together, setting father against son, Us vs. Them and launching this slipstream sci-fi espionage epic!
Overall the art is fun and the lack of full color doesn’t hurt the comic one bit. The comic can be a little wordy and hard to follow, but the premise looks great and unique. If the cover price wasn’t 2 bucks I probably would have missed this little gem. I plan to pick up future issues and you should too. RATINGS: STORY- 7/10 ART- 8/10

Paul Jenkins’ Sidekick #1: Listed price is $3.50 and I almost passed on this one because of the price, but the cover art was appealing and I like Paul Jenkins’ work. So it was worth a go.
By day, he is mild-mannered pizza delivery boy, Eddie Edison. By night, he is also mild-mannered Eddie Edison…who just happens to be the alter ego of the Mister Excellent’s 20 something sidekick, Superior Boy. But the pay sucks. So Eddie settles upon an unlikely solution: He becomes a paid sidekick to three other superheroes, but soon finds out how hard it is to juggle the schedules of four super-powered morons.
This comic is actually fun and whimsical. It feels like a Three’s Company episode with superheroes. Art is good and fits with writing well. As for the story, it was good, but it worries me that Paul Jenkins might be dragging this story out with 5 issues when an one-shot might work better. RATINGS: STORY-7/10 ART- 7/10

Heroes: NBC
Okay, so I lied. It has been hellish recently for me. I have been relocated for a job and let me tell you moving in no fun. Busy with all of life over things has left this blog very neglected. Welll, thing are slowly settling down and hope to resume a normal schedule soon.

One of the new TV shows I am really sike to see it Heroes on NBC. It has recently got a lot of press during Comic-con this year. Newsarama has an excellent interview with writer Jeph Loeb. "Some people are born to be extraordinary," Loeb explained. "They thought they were like everyone else until they work with incredible abilities... Heroes chronicles the lives of these everyday people and the lives of others like them. People whose destiny just might be saving humankind!"

The trailer looks awesome and I can't wait to see more. Comic-con is going to be have a special screening. Lets hope that it is going to create the same buzz and excitement that Lost received 2 years ago.

Superman: Braniac Attacks- Sorry about not keeping up with this site. Life beckons and weblog gets ignored. I'll try to post some more reviews. A few X-men related series ended last month and I am hoping to give my 2 cents on them.

But on the DC tip, Warner Bros are releasing a direct to video Superman: The Animated Series movie called Braniac Attacks in anticipation for the Superman Returns movie. Cartoon Network ran it the movie over the weekend prior to the June 2oth release date. I love the Superman: The Animated Series that ran during the 90's, but I am disappointed with this release. Even though the movie is animated in the same style as the television series, it was totally different. I understand that updating the characters look and personale was important, but what they did was destroy the excellent work that was previously done.

The most signficant change was Lex Luthor. In the animated series, he was intelligent, power hungering, and a serious foe to Superman. His interaction and bravo made Lex... Lex. The protrayal was very similar to the way Lex protrayed on WB's Smallville. The movie protray him very similar to the Gene Hackman version: comedic foil to the serious Superman. It was very annoying and diappointing.

Overall, if you take this direct to video movie by itself without in context with the animated series it is entertaining to watch. But it fails to continue to brillant work done on the animated series. The movie is fun to watch, but not worth owning. Get the animated series season 1, 2 & 3 instead.

More stuff for sale:
Again... another auction. Mostly stuff that did not sell before. Check it out.

The Emperor doesn't take bad news well...
Ever wonder what Darth Vader said to Emperor after the 1st Death Star was destroyed? Robot Chicken was kind of enough to re-enact that moment for us. Very funny. Credit Photon Torpedoes for this one. Click here.

Follow up care: Blue Beetle #2, Green Arrow #61 & Robin #149:
Last month I reviewed some of DC's OYL and I was iffy about whether I was going to enjoy them. So here is some follow up on those comics. Next shipment should be coming soon.

Blue Beetle #2: The new Blue Beetle, Jaime has been wandering the desert for a long time. Some memories are coming back to him. And for the suprise that awaits him home... OYL.

The verdict is a good one for Giffen, Rogers, Hamner and company. I think we have a winner here. This issue gave me a better favor of whats to come: a combination of teen angst; comedy; and good comic fun. RATINGS: STORY- 7/10 ART- 6/10.

Green Arrow #61: The new mayor Queen has plans for some big changes. Not all the citzens of Star City are ready for them and of course a Green Arrow sitting complicating things. At the end of the day awaits a special surprise for Mayor Oliver.

It is too early to full judge this story yet. Since both Judd Winick and Scott McDaniel work on Batman titles, the feel of the comic too Batman-ish. Probably due the fact that these two characters are too similar or creators are too familiar with Batman. Judd is trying to bring the "Robin Hood" back to the Green Arrow, but it is coming too Batman-ish so far. Hopefully they can overcome the similarities between the two characters and Green Arrow will shine as Green Arrow, not the second rate Batman. RATINGS: STORY-7/10 ART-8/10

Robin #149: Robin continues to investigate the death of the fake "Batgirl." The road takes him to the police station to gather evidence to prove his innocence. Of course hell breaks loose when he is spotted....

So far the comic is the best of the OYL. I love how Adam Beechen show the immaturity of Robin by letting him get caught in the police station and get his ass handed to him by Lady Shiva. Lately, most writers are making him grow up too fast. It is nice too see him fall on his face sometimes. As for the artist, Freddie Williams II, his work is growing on me. I have yet to finish his work on Seven Soldiers: Mister Miracle. At first I thought it made Robin too young, but it fit with the theme of youth and inexperience. I am glad he is going to be the regular artist on this series. RATINGS: STORY- 8/10 ART- 8/10

Some night surfing: Oh it is late... and I got to work thie Memorial Day Monday. Shouldn't I be in bed. Answer is YES. Instead I was doing some night surfing instead. I found this cool little clip which I first saw on the News From Me blog. Pretty funny.

Comic geeks and sport jocks do mix: I'm not sure if you got the lastest issue of ESPN, the cover with Larry Johnson from the K.C. Chiefs. The famous James Jean did some excellent illustratons on NBA players that were X-factors during the playoffs: Alonzo Mourning; Antonio McDyess; Shaun Livingston; Richard Jefferson; and DeSagana Diop. You can check out these great pictures on his website. Plus you get an extra piece that did not make it into the magazine of Brent Berry (which I think is the best piece.)

Fantasy Blog Stock Market
Holy Smokes! I was surfing the internet and checking if anyone has been looking at my site. I noticed thet my site is listed on the Fantasy Blog Stock Market. It is a website that makes weblog into a company that has shares. I was shocked. More shocking is that my blog is worth B$1,000.... sweetness! Even more shocking is that someone has shares in my blog (about 80%). Of course only blog is only worth $3.32 a share... and it has been on a downward turn from the very begining. Ouch! So if anyone is reading this blog. Go buy shares of my blog at Fantasy Blog Stock Market and help a fellow out! Let make this blog a blue chipper!

Don't forget to wish your mom an Happy Mother's Day. For if it wasn't for mom, I would be alive reading comic books. Thanks, Mom.

More on Wolverine #41:
If you did not believe Wolverine #41 is a must buy and must read. Check these other reviews:
Comic Should Be Good.
Broken Frontier.
The X-Axis
Zilla and the Comics Junkies
Silver Bullet Comics
Pop Syndicated
Here is some websites that give you some more insight in the plight in Africa:
Conflicts in Africa
Peace Africa

ANOTHER COMIC AUCTION (and another shamless plug):
Going to have to move. So need to empty the home base. Put up some comics up for auction again. So check my auctions out and buy something!

Captain America #17, Moon Knight #1, Ms. Marvel #2, The New Avengers Annual #1, Wolverine #41:
First of all, you need to be reading the Runaways and Young Avengers if you aren't shame on you. These series is getting really good. I have hyped up these comics in my past reviews and there is no need to rehash another review...yet. On to the new stuff, I going to hit some of last month's over-hyped Marvel comics.

Captain America #17: This comic is a recent add to my monthly pulled and let me tell what a great decision that was. This current arc has Crossbones and Red Skull's daughter, SIn chasing the man who killed the Red Skull. And it is a wild ride with Captain America and Sharon not far behind.

I highly recommend this series. Ed Brubaker creates great flow and makes this comic very easy to read and enjoy. The ending feels incomplete with some loose ends, but it is done on purpose to gives the reader a sense of things to come, which works for me in this case. I am eager for more. The art is solid. Mike Perkins reminds me of Steve Epting's art. RATINGS: STORYLINE- 8/10 ART- 7/10.

Moon Knight #1: The hype machine has been all over this comic. First we have Avengers artist David Finch penciling the work. Next another author has crossover into comicdom: Charles Huston. Marc Spector has fallen on some tough times. His mind is shattered. Drugs, pain and old glory haunts his mind. All he wants to do is to become Moon Knight again...

Again this is run of the mill first issue. But since Moon Knight is a more obscure character, it is good that the audience get a good introduction. What is hard to believe is that Moon Knight has a rich back-story and I really wish that someone would annotate the first issue. Overall it is too early to judge this series. Charles has put a good first issue and I'll check out more. Of course Finch is stunning. RATINGS: STORYLINE -7/10 ART-8/10

Ms. Marvel #2: I'll be honest. I'm a Frank Cho fanboy. So should I expect anything....? The alien race, Brood has crash landed to Earth and guess who is there to greet them, Ms. Marvel. But not everything is what it seems. For the Brood aren’t the hunters, but the hunted.

The art is fair and the story is fair: a simple twist in the plot, but nothing to exciting. Can I get my money back? RATINGS: STORYLINE- 5/10 ART- 5/10

New Avengers Annual #1: One of the weddings of the year... Jessica Jones and Luke Cage finally tie the knot. Of course, the Avengers have to deal with a villains from their past. After 24 pages of bashing, Jessica and Luke are married. Lessons to be learned from this issue: 1- Tony can summon a bunch of Iron Men to do his bidding. 2- Sentry's life suck being constantly tortured by the Void. 3. Tony and Spider Woman has some beef going on. And of yea, Jessica Jones and Luke Cage got married.

Bendis is really funny. What worked in this comic was his witty banter between the characters. It alone is worth the price of admission, but with that said the whole plot is kinda a disappointing. Too much focus was placed on this battle and not on the wedding. The art is good and average. RATINGS: STORYLINE- 7/10 ART- 5/10

Wolverine #41: Over the internet there is a lot of buzz about this comic and it deserves it. This is perhaps the best Wolverine story in a long time. Wolverine is war-torn Zwarthead Africa and he is there is pick up a special package... the baby daughter of the recently murdered president. The hope of a nation is his hands. For one day, she may bring peace to a land of destruction... if Wolverine can make it out of the country with her alive...

So far this is the best comic I have read this month. It is a must read. My hat tips off to Stuart Moore and C.P.Smith for telling this great story. The emotion and thoughts of Wolverine it well portrayed in both art and word in this issue. What also is compelling is how actual the situation the setting is. There are parts of Africa were people live and are treated like this comics. There are many stories of children kidnap, brainwashed, and force to kill their parents. It is moving and I think most of the U.S. is ignorant to that tragedy. I applaud Mr. Moore and Smith effort. Strong and emotional writing with perfect complimentary art makes this a must read. RATINGS: STORYLINE- 10/10 ART-10/10

Whoa ho! The fruits of my labor has ripened!
After hours of trying to figure out how to "cut & paste" the counter code into my blog. I now have sucess. I can now count how many times I click on my own webpage. Sweetness!

It is the end of April... do you know what that means? My monthly comicbook order is coming. Just counting the days...

Washington is gorgeous. This is suppose to be a comic book blog, but I just came back from vacation. We went to Seattle, Washington... missed Emerald-con by a few weeks. Let me say that Washington absolutely beautiful. My girlfriend and I went to the tulip festival and we took some great pictures. Hope you enjoy them!

Teen Titans Go!: This blogging thing is harder than I thought. With life going full stream and little spare time, I don't know how people keep their blogs running. Well, I have been catching up with TV with the help of the evil Tivo. (Currently with Tivo, I have watch more TV efficiently than any other part of my life.) The show I am currently in love with is the Teen Titans Go! series. I must admit that this show is awesome and very well written. The roster includes: Robin, Starfire, Beast Boy, Cyborg, and Raven. Plus they have many guest stars that really create a fun superhero universe for the Titians to play in. The character designs of the gueststars of the supporting cast are great and even better than the orginal.As I was mentioning before that the series is well written. I love how they have used by past storylines, but with a creative new twist. My current favorite is the Terra storyline. Currently Cartoon Network is playing mostly highlights from past seasons in the morning and newer episodes on Saturday night. Edited- After further reading on the internet, apparently this series is getting canned. That sucks 'cuz I was getting to enjoy this series.

Batman Annual #25, Blue Beetle #2, Green Arrow #60, Green Lantern #10, Robin #148: Well, I am finally going to get around posting some new reviews. This time around I am going to focus on the ultra hot One Year Later event that has been running through the DC world. The premise is that one year has past in the world after the Infinite Crisis and the world has changed.

Batman Annual #25: Okay, so the first review is not on a OYL book, but it is one that has gotten a lot of press and hype (enough to get a second pressing). Red Hood, er Hush, er Jason Todd has been running amuck in Gotham and torturing poor old Batman. Well, this is the issue that tells how Jason Todd survived the blast and the thousands of votes to kill Jason. (Perhaps the postal man lost hundreds of vote to save Jason.)
Storywise Judd Winick does admirable job showing Jason's pain and motives. You actually feel sorry for Jason and understand why he hates both the Joker and Batman so much. The art by Shane Davis is good and would work as the regular penciler. My only complaint is the price of $4.99. Wow can DC really jack the price. The story was good, but not 5 dollar good? RATINGS: STORY- 7/10 ART- 7/10

Blue Beetle #1: So the first Blue Beetle was kill in the OMAC series and of course to bring in a new one in his own series. To be honest, I did not really care for the character the first time. So I was tempted to pass on this one. Meet Jamie. He is your ordinary teenager in El Paso, Texas who happen to find this strange blue beetle. Of course, he runs into Guy Gardner and they fight, which ends with the realization that he is the Blue Beetle.
This issues is your standard first issue comic. It introduces the main character and his supporting cast while focusing on teenage superheroes problems. Average story with average art. Plan to check out the next issue before making final decision. RATINGS: STORY- 5/10 ART- 6/10

Green Arrow #60: It is a year later in Star City. Things have changed. Green Arrow is missing. The city is suffering from the fallout of Amsterdam Disaster. Oh by the way Ollie Queen is mayor of the city.
This premise reminds me of happened in Daredevil when he took over Hell's Kitchen. Hopefully Ollie will have better luck than Daredevil. (Since Daredevil is in jail now). I am really interested in where Judd Winick is planning for this Ollie. Call me a fanboy, but I love Scott McDaniel artwork. I love his style and storytelling. RATINGS: STORY- 8/10 ART-8/10

Green Lantern #10: I have been talk about the great job Geoff Johns as been doing for comics. He has resurrected the Flash franchise and keep me hooked on the Teen Titians. Seems like everything he has touch has turn into gold. Green Lantern has been no exception. Up to now, this series has been on an excellent direction. Unfortunately, the OYL may have slow things down... There is a bounty on Hal's head. The United Nation hates Hal. And of course Green Lanterns has a beef with Hal. Nothing is going right.
Unfortunately, OYL came at the wrong time for GL. This issue lays some groundwork for the future, but this issue itself is weakest from Geoff. But there is potential in future storylines... Sinestro. I like Ivan Reis's art. It has a strong traditional sense. RATINGS: STORY-5/10 ART-7/10

Robin #148: Robin has turned Gotchaman. Well at least the style of his costume. The issue starts with Robin finding himself in an alley with what appears to be a dead Batgirl. Of course, the dead Batgirl is really Lynx. The real Batgirl is no where to be found. Now a chase to find Robin the killer begins.
This is probably the most intriguing comic of this batch. Roam Beechan is new to me, but I think I am going to enjoy future issues by. My favorite line is when Batman replies to Robin explaining that he did not kill Batgirl, "I figure it wasn't the real Batgirl. You couldn't have beaten Cassie." Going to love Roam's humor. The art is uneven for me. RATINGS: STORY- 8/10 ART-3/10

Work has been a killer this past month and my poor blog has been neglected. My new shipment of comics will be coming soon and so much as happened this month. I am going to finally find out what happened in Infinite Crisis #5. And One Year Later comics that is getting some much press. I can't wait.

Fantastic Four 534 & 535: Who's comics is this anyways?
J. Michael Straczynski (JMS), you kill me. Ever since he has taken over this comic, it has been a battle to read his issues. Some comics I breeze through and enjoy them effortlessly. With JMS's comic it has been a major struggle, in particular the Fantastic Four and Supreme Power. But I still continue to buy both comics because of the story art by FF's Mike McKone and SP's Gark Frank.
So the Thing and Human Torch has chased to the Hulk to Las Vegas. All this happened because Child Protective Services deemed the Richards as endangerment to their children and has taken custody. The FF needs to locate the Hulk since he is godfather to the kids and could legally take the kids while the FF battled CPS. Of course, the Hulk is in rage mode and starts battling the Thing and Human Torch. Can they calm him down enough to save the kids from the CPS?
The first question I asked, "Is who's comic is this anyways?" JMS wrote a Hulk story, and mislabel this issue with a Fantastic Four label. It is full of flashbacks of Hulk's saddest moments in life. (I wish some one would tag the flash back to the appropriate comic, because I'm sure the younger reader won't remember them.) At the end, you realize the Hulk is one badd muther... and can't be beat, thus leading to the "Planet Hulk" stuff going on the Hulk's own title.
The Thing comments about a conversation to Mr. Fantastic, "Then I made a little joke and said maybe the only way to really protect the world from the Hulk if he ever goes really nuts is ta stick him in a rocket and shoot him out into space-- Let him be somebody else's problem." Of course, they actually do that anyways. Oh by the way, FF ended up not needed the Hulk as a godfather, because somebody blows up the safehouse where the kids were suppose to be, proving that the safest place for the kids is with their parent. So does this event mattered, probably not.
These issues were entertaining, but could be better. JMS continues to hurt me, but I keep taking because of Mike McKone. I loved his work on Teen Titians and wished he had stayed on. RATINGS: STORY- 5/10 ART- 8/10

Runaways 13, X-Static- Deadgirl 2, & Young Avengers 10:
When I get my latest shipment of comics, I get the aura of anticipation and glee. For me, it is my personal Christmas every month. Each comic has the potential to entertain and wow me and along with disappointment. Currently Runaways & Young Avengers are the first comics I read because they have been consistently excellent and well done. And don't forget to buy my comics, so check my auctions out.

Runaway 13: So by now, everyone should be reading this comic. The comic is awesome. I think everyone on this planet is harping how great this comic is. If you haven't read this comic, stop reading this blog and go buy it.
Princess Power AKA Molly is far away from her teammates and wakes up an unfamiliar sewer surrounded by other kids. These kids are under the control of the evil Provost. Provost uses a special collar to force children to become thieves and steal money for him. Little does he know that he has Princess Power to answer to now...
Listen, go buy this comic. You will not regret it. This comic is a single issue storyline which is rare these days, but give you a good feel how general the comic is which is fun. Adrian Alphona, the artist is excellent is capturing the energy and emotion of these characters. Brian K. Vaughan has yet to produce an issue that fails to entertain me and crave for more. RATINGS: STORY- 10/10 ART: 10/10

X-Static Presents: Deadgirl 2: Dr. Strange feels something is wrong with the world of the dead. The Pitiful One is resurrecting dead super-powered heroes and villains to help bring mayhem and death to the living. Dr. Strange knows one on person who can help him... Deadgirl. To entice the dead to help, he knows a sercet that the dead wants: how to become part of the living again.
You would think Dr. Strange who enlist of some of Marvel's heavy hitters instead of Deadgirl, but he choose with Deadgirl and we would have some of the campy-ist dialogue and situations yet. We get the Dead Sisters' book club, Ant-man fighting carpet bugs, and Sensitive Man's phobia of doctors. What more do you really need. Peter Milligan & Mike Allred style really shines. This comic shows why the X-static worked and was so popular. (I think near the end of X-static's run they were getting bored and need time off. Hopefully this will rekindle something and bring that comic back.) Nick Dragotta which is the co-artist with Mike does a good job of continuing the style of the art. Of course Laura Allred's coloring is one of my favorites. This mini-series has become of one of my favorite and will be eagerly awaiting each following issue. RATINGS: STORY- 9/10 ART- 10/10

Young Avengers 10: The Super Skrull has kidnapped the Hulking. The Hulking apparently is a skrull and the only hope for the skull empire. The Young Avengers must now muster some fire power to get him back. They head to Starks tower only to find the New Avengers out on a mission, but the new Vision is there. He locates another super-powered youth to help them battle the Super Skrull... but he is in the federal prison. Can we say jail break! And is this new person going to be a model citzen or a killer.
I was really skeptical when I first heard this comic. I thought is was another one of the new Marvel comics that was going to suck and disappear (Livewires & Spellbinders to name 2.) But this comic has really worked and I keep buying it every month. Allan Heinberg and Jim Cheung did a great job creating these characters. Of course, their origins are so interesting and bring so many questions. One of the popular rumors is that Wiccan is a child of the Scarlett Witch, which will be interested to see how that pans out. Allan has a knack for bring the teenage angst and struggles while not boring the old fans (like me). Jim penciling have be good and clean. RATINGS: STORY- 8/10 ART-8/10