Crime is doomed.
Batman and Robin #1 -
I’ve never been sold on the first issue of any superhero series like I’ve been sold on this, it’s the dawn of a new Caped Crusader and Boy Wonder in this sibling rivalry of Bruce Wayne’s eldest son, Dick Grayson, and his youngest, the illegitimate assassin-trained spitfire, Damian Wayne. If this turns out to be half as good as the first issue indicates, I’ll be on this book until it transcends physical form. From the thrillride hilarity of car chases with Mr. Toad to the terrifying horrorshow surgery of Professor Pyg, this is the Dark Knight in a completely new, strange, bold light. A+ (for more reading check out David Uzumeri’s Batman Reborn annotations!)
Dark Avengers #5 -
Far and away, the craftsmanship of this title blows away it’s tie-ins and corollary peers. The spectrum of heroism and it’s relationship to Osborn’s Avengers is well done and engaging, it’s the Sopranos of the Marvel Universe. I’m really glad to see Bendis approaching the perspective stories of the Sentry, Ares and Marvel Boy. He gets a lot of flack for the wait it takes for him to cover a certain plot, mainly the Sentry. But here we are folks, all the darkness, risk and humor all on a plate. When Osborn’s house falls, it’ll be interesting to see who sends it down: the Marvel heroes, his Cabal, or himself. A true special book, I’m glad we’ll have it while we do. A (Dark Avengers #6 preview)
Seaguy: Slaves of the Mickey Eye #3 (of 3)
Despite a week of big issues dropping this week, this week’s “Best of Show” goes to another Morrison title, the strange gem that is the struggle of the world’s lone hero standing against the tyranny of a dark Disney that molds slaves out of fears and insecurities. As much about exploring the mechanics of superheroes as it is life stages, the second volume has been referred to as Seaguy’s punk rock years. With the third set of installments mere months away, take heed: Slaves of Mickey Eye will re-ignite your cold heart. I’m really sorry I cannot explain it any better. A+ (for further reading, CBR’s interview with Grant Morrison)
Ultimate Spider-Man #133 -
A silent end to this best-selling Spider-Man title from Brian Bendis! With Volume 1 coming to a close, the wake of changes sweeping through the title promise a new day of Ultimate Spider-Man. If I prayed, it would be for the safety of Peter Parker. What’s amazing is how organic all of this reads. A moment of silence my friends, for Spider-Man and all those lost. A
Nobody tells a fat joke like Spider-Man.