Comic Book Reviews for This Week: 7/24/2024

DC #1

ABSOLUTE POWER: ORIGINS #1

In an intriguing twist for the “Absolute Power” crossover event, Amanda Waller takes center stage as she sets out to build a new DC universe according to her own rules. Though not often explored, Amanda’s backstory is unique and complex, serving as a contrast to Batman’s origins. The first issue of this mini-series does an excellent job of sharing Amanda’s distinctive origin story and providing insights into how the determined antagonist came to be. Her journey may not involve being bitten by a radioactive spider or hailing from an alien planet, but its impact is undeniable. This promising start marks an essential addition to “Absolute Power.” — Evan Valentine

Rating: 4 out of 5

ABSOLUTE POWER: TASK FORCE VII #2

In simpler terms, Issue #2 of Task Force VII introduces Depth Charge, the Aquaman captor assigned by Waller. We primarily follow Doom Patrol’s perspective as they lose their powers and attempt to aid Atlantis inhabitants, leading to predictable results in their encounters with metahuman forces, similar to “Absolute Power.” Although Max Raynor brings vibrancy to the story with B-list superheroes and stunning underwater settings, the narrative remains fragmented. The cliffhanger leaves us anticipating more revelations. Like the first issue, this miniseries focuses on expanding brief sequences from the event rather than delivering a fulfilling standalone story. If you’re intrigued by how Doom Patrol and Aquaman tackle powerful adversaries, seek it elsewhere for a more satisfying comic book experience.

Rating: 2 out of 5

BATMAN: DARK AGE #4

In the comic series “Batman: Dark Age,” Batman’s battle against crime evolves, bringing counterculture elements into the mix. Previously, characters such as Catwoman, Joker, Penguin, and Riddler were predominantly portrayed as secondary figures in Batman’s narrative. However, their roles have been more peripheral up until now. An intriguing observation is that Pariah, who plays a significant role in the connection to Russell’s earlier “Age” series, has yet to make a significant impact on the storyline. Nevertheless, a surprising encounter with Ra’s al Ghul towards the end could potentially alter Batman’s world dramatically.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

BATMAN: THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD #15

In “Batman: The Brave and the Bold,” you’ll find a vast cave filled with various tones and tales. This anthology series proves it caters to all preferences, with standout episodes like “Time Jerks” and “The Invader.” The witty script by Mark Russell and eye-catching art by Jon Mikel in “Time Jerkers” wrap up Booster Gold’s journey with the Jurassic League. Meanwhile, the last installment of “The Invader,” penned by Joshua Hale Fialkov and illustrated by Lisandro Estherren, adds a quirky yet heartfelt touch to Guy Gardner and Batman’s unusual partnership. Though not its best issue, it still offers numerous positives.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

DETECTIVE COMICS #1087

In an unexpected turn of events, Batman and some unexpected allies work together to weaken the Orghams’ power, targeting key lieutenants first. Unconventional partners like Mr. Freeze and Two-Face may seem unusual for Batman’s mission to save Gotham, but they have played crucial roles since the beginning and are due their moment in the spotlight. The secondary storyline of Batman and Azrael is particularly captivating, enhanced by Francesco Francavilla’s stunning artwork.

Rating: 4 out of 5

THE FLASH #11

In issue #11 of The Flash, Wally’s journey takes a surreal turn as he encounters metaphysical beings trying to restructure reality. Meanwhile, his family and fellow speedsters deal with the practical aspects of this new threat. Artist Ramón Pérez skillfully distinguishes between these two worlds, using creative panel layouts and distorted forms for Wally’s disorienting experiences and more conventional artwork when depicting the team. Although some parts may be heavy on exposition, they are essential for introducing the intricate antagonists driving The Flash’s storyline. With significant developments ahead, this month’s issue promises an exciting payoff for readers.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

DC #2

GREEN ARROW #14

As a longtime fan of Arrow, I can’t help but be thrilled by the dynamic of Team Arrow working together without Oliver Queen, aka Green Arrow, as the central figure. Don’t get me wrong, I understand that he has turned against his friends, but deep down, I believe there must be a compelling reason for his actions.

Rating: 4 out of 5

HARLEY QUINN #42

As a gamer and avid reader of comics, I’d say that Harley Quinn #42 keeps me on my toes with its complex plotlines. However, the main focus shifts from the ongoing conflict with the corrupt cop to an unexpected team-up between Harley and Robin. This collaboration feels more like an unwanted therapy session about bisexuality for Robin, which is a topic that’s already been established in the comics. While there’s action involved, such as their battle against Freeze, the excessive dialogue makes it feel a bit slow and outdated.

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

THE NICE HOUSE BY THE SEA #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

The Nice House on the Lake was a series characterized by all of the very best adjectives starting with the letter S; it was surreal, subversive, smart, and scary-as-hell. The story of a handful of accomplished friends gathered in a seeming paradise to be held as captives by an alien consciousness while the Earth ended was immediately something special and only grew in its promise across 12 issues. Its sequel, The Nice House on the Sea, can be described with those same words as it introduces a new gathering of individuals at a new location under the same premise, but what makes it so impressive is how quickly it builds upon what’s come before to change everything readers know once again. — Chase Magnett

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

POWER GIRL #11

As a gamer and avid fan of superhero comics, I can assure you that this latest issue featuring Paige, aka Power Girl, is more about her personal struggles than your typical action-packed Power Girl adventure. And that’s perfectly fine! The best stories in this genre delve deep into the lives of these complex characters, making their alter egos just as intriguing as their superhero personas. Williams has excelled at this in this series, providing a compelling narrative that balances both aspects of Paige’s life. So while there might not be as much Power Girl action as some may desire, it’s still an enjoyable and lighthearted read overall.

Rating: 4 out of 5

ZATANNA: BRING DOWN THE HOUSE #2

Zatanna: Bring Down The House #2 delivers on the demon battle promised at the end of issue #1 and manages to make that extraordinary spectacle seem like a secondary concern in a rapidly expanding saga of magic and childhood trauma. Zatanna and the powerful stranger appearing at her shows both reveal plenty of heroism and attitude as the stage comes crashing down, establishing a tense but rewarding dynamic that only grows better as a secret society of sorcerers is revealed. There’s a sense of going down the rabbit hole as Zatanna’s past and present are bound together in allusions to her father and the first issue’s disappeared child in which every answer introduces a new question. That sense of discovery is exhilarating, especially when the issue introduces yet another mysterious figure and facet of the truth by its end. But it’s Javier Rodr?guez’s artwork that makes these many timelines, settings, and perspectives blend with such wonder on the page. Alterations in style instantly inform readers whenever the sequence shifts and implies arcane concepts far better than any prose explanation might. Every stage of the battle and use of magic brings about splendid new effects that suggest reality-altering power in their very presentation. Bring Down the House #2 effectively shifts its tone between excitement, humor, and terror between panels, but every moment will leave readers wanting to discover more, no matter how dark the story may grow. — Chase Magnett

Rating: 5 out of 5

Marvel #1

ANNIHILATION 2099 #4

The Silver Surfer has an intriguing backstory rooted in Old Testament folklore. Originally depicted as God’s vengeful messenger and later making a Faustian deal, Steve Orlando reinterprets this cosmic Marvel character for Earth-2099, creating a servant of Mephisto with similar themes of torment and power struggles. This issue of “Annihilation 2099” is my favorite so far, with the Silver Surfer’s origin presented in captivating parables that delve into temptation and sacrifice, highlighting his tragic essence. Though every scene might serve as setup, it’s iconic setup, beautifully illustrated by Ario Andidito with a fiery heart at the center of the Surfer’s chest. The unexpected arrival of Dracula at the end contrasts the fallen angel from the stars against a devil cast into the emptiness of space, making this compact storytelling experience incredibly impactful.

Rating: 4 out of 5

CAPTAIN AMERICA #11

In Straczynski’s rendition of Captain America, the focus on themes often overshadows character development. Though this unconventional approach introduces an intriguing new layer to Steve Rogers, it ultimately leaves a hollow and unsatisfying impression in issue #11. Saiz performs brilliantly when delving into more out-there ideas; however, the Captain America storyline here is disappointingly tame.

Rating: 3 out of 5

DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE: WWIII #3

As a gamer and avid comic book reader, I can’t help but be impressed with Joe Kelly’s take on Deadpool and Wolverine in “Deadpool & Wolverine: WWIII.” The timing and entertainment value of this story are spot on, making it a must-read on its own merit. Kelly deftly handles these iconic characters, striking the perfect balance between their distinct personalities.

Rating: 4 out of 5

NYX #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

NYX #1 offers a captivating, yet controlled, introduction to Marvel’s adolescent mutants’ world. The engaging character interactions and escalating tension promise a fresh take on the X-Men relaunch, while avoiding the need for an immediate overhaul. As with recent issues of X-Men, there is commendable effort put into this debut, but it remains to be seen if it will leave a strong impression.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

STAR WARS: DARTH VADER #48

As a gamer, I’ve reached the penultimate level in this “Star Wars: Darth Vader” comic series. The tension between Luke and Vader is palpable – we both know that their impending confrontation could lead to one of their deaths. I ponder over my own strength and resolve as Luke, questioning if I have what it takes to defeat my father, even if it means taking his life. Meanwhile, Darth Vader wonders how far he’s fallen, reflecting on the depth of his devotion to Palpatine and considering the potential consequences of betraying him.

Rating: 3 out of 5

STRANGE ACADEMY: BLOOD HUNT #3

As a gamer, I can tell you that the storyline for the Strange Academy kids concludes with a satisfying twist. The Darkhold kid manages to shake off his unsavory reputation and ultimately earns a spot among Doctor Strange’s students. With Agatha All Along set to premiere in October, it’s safe to assume we’ll be revisiting Strange Academy and the Darkhold once more. —Tim Adams

Rating: 3 out of 5

Marvel #2

ULTIMATE BLACK PANTHER #6

In the latest edition of “Ultimate Black Panther,” writer Bryan Hill pushes the boundaries of what’s been relatively familiar territory for this series, yet stops short of a complete overhaul. The Black Panther from Earth-616 has dominated the narrative up until now, with Hill introducing intriguing changes but not fully embracing them. Artist Carlos Nieto takes over for Stefano Caselli in this issue, creating a consistent visual experience despite some subtle differences. –Spencer Perry

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

VENGEANCE OF THE MOON KNIGHT #7

In “Blood Hunt” #4, Marc Spector came back to life in a spectacular way, and under Jed MacKay’s skillful direction, this moment was both epic and rewarding for devoted fans. However, in “Vengeance of the Moon Knight” #7, we experience a sense of deja vu as the story revisits Marc’s rescue by Khonshu, providing some extra context but mainly retracing familiar ground until midway through. Highlights include Marc’s heartfelt reunion with Tigra and the visually stunning artwork of Alessandro Cappuccio, Rachelle Rosenberg, and Cory Petit. For those who have followed this saga since the start, it is definitely worth their time, but readers seeking more narrative advancement may not find it here.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

VENOM: SEPARATION ANXIETY #3

The new Venom: Separation Anxiety stands out for its captivating artwork by penciler Gerardo Sandoval. He infuses every detail with his passion, resulting in distinctive compositions and Venom-themed designs that delight the eye. Sandoval’s art is further enhanced by ink artist Victor Nava and colorist Romulo Fajardo Jr. However, the plot concept by series writer David Michelinie is intriguing but the traditional approach of packing every panel with large speech bubbles feels outdated, particularly when the visuals are what truly capture our attention. — Spencer Perry (paraphrased)

Rating: 3 out of 5

VENOMVERSE REBORN #2

Reborn” explores the boundaries of the Venom symbiote through interconnected stories. The first narrative delves into the past by having Venom bond with a warrior in Norway, altering history. Though visually appealing, this tale feels underdeveloped and serves as an unpolished introduction.

Rating: 3 out of 5

WOLVERINE: BLOOD HUNT #4

Wolverine’s Blood Hunt tie-in series comes to its roaring conclusion here, a suitable ending for the story at hand. Waltz’s script does a lot in little time, making huge leaps through the story to make sure it’s wrapped in just four issues. Ryp’s strong lines provides a nice balance with the cloudy, atmospheric colors from Guru-eFX. — Adam Barnhardt

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Image #1

BLOOD SQUAD SEVEN #3

As a gamer and avid comic book reader, I’ve been following the Blood Squad Seven series with some anticipation. However, I have to admit that my experience with #3 left me feeling quite disappointed. The opening mission of this cynical superhero squad, dealing with one of their own who’s gone rogue and is on a rampage, feels like it was inspired by similar stories from the past – specifically, The Ultimates. But unfortunately, the execution just doesn’t live up to the mark set by that classic series.

Rating: 1 out of 5

FERAL #5

Without repeating myself excessively, “Feral” is a heart-wrenching series that manages to infuse warmth and hope amidst its grim themes of death and chaos. The authors skillfully prevent desensitization by introducing unexpected twists or unique executions of violent scenes. A notable instance in “Feral” #5 stands out, as it deviated significantly from my expectations but effectively heightened the tension and stakes. Throughout the series, Tony Fleecs maintains an air of uncertainty, while artists Trish Forstner, Tone Rodriguez, and Brad Simpson consistently deliver exceptional visuals. A particularly harrowing sequence midway through leaves a profound impact, perfectly encapsulating the intended emotion.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

LOCAL MAN #12

The storyline for “Local Man” skillfully combines various elements, leading Jack and his associates towards a significant crossroads. The collaboration between Tim Seeley and Tony Fleecs remains charming and poignant, with their writing and art reflecting an appealing nostalgia. Although this installment may not be as groundbreaking as some past issues, it underscores why we continue to appreciate the series.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

MONSTRESS #53

In #53 of Monstress, Marjorie Liu serves up some shocking twists that leave readers reeling. Maika experiences a pivotal encounter with her father during a drug-induced slumber, but this isn’t the only bombshell dropped. The once seemingly invincible Lord Doctor may not be as powerful as he appears, a revelation that significantly alters Maika’s world. As more information comes to light, the gravity of the situation becomes apparent. The stakes have been raised in this issue, and even though we’re still far from reaching a conclusion, these new developments add depth and intrigue to an already captivating narrative.

Rating: 4 out of 5

NO/ONE #10

As a gamer, I’ve reached the last installment of this intriguing murder mystery series, and I can’t help but feel that some elements have lost their edge. The resolution seems to be on the horizon, but then the story takes an unexpected turn that leaves me feeling unsatisfied. Don’t get me wrong, there are still plenty of well-crafted moments in this issue. Kyle Higgins and Brian Buccellato’s script delivers some great character development, while Geraldo Borges’ art keeps things uncluttered and easy to follow. However, I can’t help but feel like I’ve missed something crucial by not tuning into the spinoff podcast earlier. The incompleteness of this finale leaves me wanting more, which isn’t ideal when wrapping up a series.

Rating: 4 out of 5

ROOK: EXODUS #4

Rook seeks revenge for his late friend Swine, while we witness more confrontations between wardens Dire Wolf and Kaa. The new comic series “Rook: Exodus” created by the team has kept me engaged with its intriguing plot. I’m eager to discover the identity of Ursaw, but it’s also plausible that he is yet another character we haven’t encountered in this world. — Tim Adams

Rating: 3 out of 5

THE SACRIFICERS #10

In “The Sacrificers” #10, the absence of artist Max Fiumara is striking, as his distinctive style and narrative flair have significantly shaped the high fantasy aspects of this series. However, the arrival of Andrés Lima Araújo brings a fresh perspective that complements the storyline beautifully. Instead of focusing on divine battles, Araújo zeroes in on Soluna’s pitiful condition and the grim reality of her life as a serf. The issue portrays Soluna’s struggles with poverty and suffering through crisp lines and intricate details, providing readers with a deeper understanding of how ordinary people interact with their gods. Though the issue adds to Soluna’s burdens, it avoids excessive ugliness and instead presents her with harrowing situations that are both relatable (such as poverty) and terrifying. The juxtaposition between this issue and the previous one featuring Pigeon creates an engaging contrast, highlighting Araújo’s strengths and setting the stage for a captivating new story arc in “The Sacrificers.”

Rating: 4 out of 5

Image #2

SELF HELP #2

As a seasoned reader with a keen interest in self-help literature, I’ve come across my fair share of books that promise to revolutionize the genre, only to disappoint. But “Self Help” by Charlie Ridgely is one that continues to keep me on the edge of my seat, swinging between excitement and frustration.

Rating: 3 out of 5

THE SIX FINGERS #5

In a melancholic conclusion, The Six Fingers, along with its related series The One Hand, reaches a dismal finish. The thoughtfully designed panels evoke a sense of time rushing by, reinforced by frequent images of clocks, decanters, and Newton’s cradles highlighting themes of time and mechanization. An ingenious touch includes captions emerging between the spheres of the pendulum, with the character’s voice resonating between swings. As the narrative becomes increasingly chaotic, the layouts transition to more expansive pages. There is no simple or neat resolution in The Six Fingers, any more than there was in The One Hand‘s ending. Instead, such straightforward explanations would undermine the profound world crafted by these creators. The poignant culmination will undoubtedly leave readers pondering for quite some time. —Jamie Lovett

Rating: 4 out of 5

SPAWN KILLS EVERY SPAWN #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

“Spawn Kills Spawn” Falls Short of Engaging Newcomers and Longtime Fans Alike

Rating: 2 out of 5

SUPERMASSIVE #1

The “Supermassive” crossover comic this year is an action-packed rollercoaster ride, with a dynamic visual style that features intense fight scenes and non-stop movement. Although the artwork is impressive, it can be a bit overwhelming at times. This issue introduces five primary characters, but due to the limited space, their backstories are not fully explored. Instead, they represent distinct moral positions on the hero-antihero-reformed-villain spectrum. As a newcomer to the “Massive-verse,” this is my first encounter with it, and while it doesn’t make for a satisfying beginning due to its connection to “Radiant Black,” it does offer readers a taste of each character. It’s likely that some readers will be intrigued enough to pursue any one of them in their standalone series.)

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

UNIVERSAL MONSTERS: CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON LIVES! #4

“Universal Monsters: Creature from the Black Lagoon Returns with a Vengeance” #4: A Chilling Exploration of Human Condition through Horror

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

VOID RIVALS #11

In a surprising turn of events, Darak and Solila, the ancient adversaries referred to as “void rivals,” find themselves reluctantly cooperating during a perilous journey. While displaying their formidable abilities, they begin to appreciate each other’s worth. Darak undergoes a transformation in his perception towards Zertonians, extending a helping hand by sharing vital technology that could mean the difference between life and death for them. Though their truce was temporary, this newfound understanding marks an essential milestone in their long-standing relationship and adds depth to the central theme of the series.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Other Publishers #1

THE BIG BURN #1

The second half of the execution exhibits some inconsistency, but wow, “The Big Burn” presents an intriguing concept. Imagine a heist tale where one bargains their soul to the devil and afterward attempts to steal it back from his casino-themed inferno. What a captivating opening, and for the most part, this debut issue delivers an engaging take on that narrative. — Charlie Ridgely

Rating: 4 out of 5

BLOW AWAY #4

In the fourth installment of “Blow Away,” Nicole Drum writes that Brynne’s investigation leads to injury and escape, resulting in the potential revelation of the truth in the next issue. To achieve this, we delve into Brynne’s past and uncover details about a previous case that damaged her reputation. This backstory adds depth and intrigue, yet the sudden shift back to Brynne’s paranoia and resolution of the hiker mystery feels jarring and uneven. Despite these issues, Drum praises the vivid portrayal of locals versus outsiders and the chilling atmosphere created by the desolate environment, which maintains an eerie tone as the story nears its conclusion.

Rating: 3 out of 5

BRZRKR: A FACEFUL OF BULLETS #1

In a separate tale from B.’s past, “BRZRKR: A Faceful of Bullets ” takes place during the early stages of the Civil War in the Midwestern regions of Kansas and Missouri. The main character is drawn back into violence and justice, as recounted through the perspective of one of his saviors. Although exploring B.’s history holds intrigue, this particular story by Jason Aaron seems to borrow heavily from cliched Western movies, with an emphasis on excessive violence for sensational effect. It falls short of capturing the essence of the Wild West and instead leans towards unfortunate stereotypes. Despite the visually appealing artwork by Francesco Manna, the narrative fails to hit the mark.

Rating: 2 out of 5

CONAN THE BARBARIAN #12

As a gamer and fan of the Conan comic series, I’d say this latest arc by Zub isn’t his most groundbreaking yet, but it’s not disappointing either. It keeps true to its promise, providing top-notch art and thrilling adventures. This issue in particular makes me wish there were more Conan stories set in the snowy landscapes. — Charlie Ridgely

Rating: 3 out of 5

CRUEL UNIVERSE #1

In simpler terms, the new comic series, “Cruel Universe,” brought back by Oni Press, could have just capitalized on the nostalgia of EC’s past in horror and sci-fi. But this debut issue offers more than we anticipated with four chilling tales that feel both vintage and contemporary. From a bizarre incident involving a black hole to the high price of being an intergalactic warrior, this issue presents diverse stories that challenge technology, science, ethics, and life itself. Each tale feels like watching a new “Black Mirror” episode due to its unique perspective and current tone. While other comics might try to reproduce a classic art style, “Cruel Universe” doesn’t rely solely on past successes. The panels may hint at the ’50s and ’60s aesthetic, but the overall design is distinctly modern. Oni Press faced a significant challenge in reviving EC, but they not only met our expectations, but they surpassed them. Although future installments might not be as remarkable, “Cruel Universe” will still outshine most other sci-fi and horror titles. –[Your Name]

Rating: 5 out of 5

EPITAPHS FROM THE ABYSS #1

Epitaphs From the Abyss: A Horror Satire Exploring Modern Society’s Dark Side

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

FENCE CHALLENGERS: LONG SHOT #1

In issue #1 of “Fence Challengers: Long Shots,” a highly anticipated comic book title returns. Our team is back together and preparing for the fencing state championships, where personal challenges loom large for Nicholas and Seiji. The stunning artwork complements the storyline’s comeback, ensuring an enthralling reading experience. — Megan Peters)

Rating: 4 out of 5

GODZILLA VS. MIGHTY MORPHIN POWER RANGERS II #4

In simpler terms, issue #4 of Godzilla vs Mighty Morphin Power Rangers II raises the bar for excitement and craziness. The story is filled with over-the-top elements that make it a joy to read, and Cullen Bunn expertly captures the series’ fantastical spirit. Artists Baldemar Rivas, Andrew Dalhouse, and Johanna Nattalie have outdone themselves with stunning Zord designs that are truly impressive. These designs aren’t an exaggeration, and I sincerely hope toys are made of them. Although Godzilla takes a back seat, other Kaiju characters shine in his absence, leading up to an epic showdown. Overall, this issue is a wild ride and a must-read for fans of the franchise.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Other Publishers #2

GODZILLA: SKATE OR DIE #2

As a gamer and avid fan of Godzilla, I can’t help but feel drawn to these skaters as they race towards the destruction caused by the beast, all while dodging law enforcement. It’s no secret that when it comes to Godzilla stories in comics or any other medium, logic isn’t always a priority. And yes, the concept of skaters taking on Godzilla may seem far-fetched, but who are we to question the premise if the story is captivating enough?

Rating: 2 out of 5

HELLO DARKNESS #1

In current comic book market, anthologies, particularly ongoing ones, are scarce finds. The arrival of “Hello Darkness” #1 this week is thus a refreshing shift, showcasing an impressive array of horror stories and talents. This issue presents half a dozen tales, some standalone, others labeled as part one, accompanied by single-page comics and pin-ups. Each contribution boasts a unique style and approach to horror.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

JOY OPERATIONS 2 #2

Joy has been falsely accused of a crime, but she’s managing the situation with her usual competence and leadership. The secondary characters add depth to the story, particularly Joy’s spouse and Hampton’s sibling, whose relationship is intriguing and could be further explored in upcoming installments. Kudos to Stephen Byrne for delivering stunning artwork that truly enhances the comic.

Rating: 3 out of 5

MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE: REVOLUTION #3

In the thrilling finale of “Masters of the Universe: Revolution” #3, we encounter a scene packed with dramatic intensity that could potentially shape the entire series. Regrettably, it falls short of this expectation. The transformation depicted in Daniel Hdr’s expressive pencil work is powerfully enhanced by Keith Champagne’s meticulous inks and Brad Simpson’s vibrant colors. However, the rest of the art in the comic remains impressive. Unfortunately, the flow of the larger narrative gets disrupted by unwieldy and cumbersome dialogue bubbles that obstruct numerous panels. –Paraphrased by me.

Rating: 3 out of 5

MIGHTY MORPHIN POWER RANGERS #122

In my perspective as an avid fan, “The Darkest Hour” has truly delivered on its promise, yet hope flickers faintly through the shadows in “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers” #122. Melissa Flores has taken me on an emotional rollercoaster ride during this penultimate issue, showcasing how much the characters have grown since the series began eight years ago. The interactions between Billy and Zordon, as well as Ari and Kimberly, are particularly poignant, revealing the depth of their development. At times, their conflicting viewpoints can be frustrating, but that’s just part of being human – a trait that has long defined the Power Rangers comics. Flores masterfully brings humanity to the forefront, even amidst grand action sequences. When the action does erupt, Simona Di Gianfelice, Raul Angulo, Jose Enrique Fernandez, and Ed Dukeshire expertly add excitement, culminating in a splash page filled with Power Rangers that will leave fans elated. All the puzzle pieces are now set, and we’ll soon discover how this epic tale concludes in “Darkest Hour” #1. — John Doe (Matthew Aguilar’s fan)

Rating: 4 out of 5

MINOR THREATS: THE FASTEST WAY DOWN #4

The unique appeal of Minor Threats lies in its ability to transform the ordinary into something extraordinary. In issue #4 of the second storyline in The Fastest Way Down, the series reaches a climax that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant, showcasing Oswalt and Blum’s skill at breathing life into complex characters.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

NEMESIS: ROGUES’ GALLERY #1

Artist Valerio Giangiordano and color artist Lee Loughridge excel at setting the scene and creating a sense of action right from the start in “Nemesis: Rogues’ Gallery.” The vivid colors and dynamic movements by Loughridge give the artwork an enhanced look, while maintaining a solid foundation. However, the main narrative falls flat and feels overused, with even the attempt at edginess appearing worn out compared to previous stories featuring this character. Having knowledge of “Nemesis Reloaded” and “Big Game” doesn’t make this any more engaging; instead, it may diminish the impact those stories had. — Spencer Perry

Rating: 2 out of 5

ORCS!: THE GIFT #4

As a seasoned fantasy literature enthusiast with a deep appreciation for intricately woven narratives, I can wholeheartedly affirm that the finale of this epic tale left me utterly captivated and amused. The rich tapestry of diverse tribal classes – orcs, wolves, and elves – presented a visual feast for the mind’s eye, each with their unique strengths, weaknesses, and distinct cultures.

Rating: 3 out of 5

Other Publishers #3

PROJECT: CRYPTID #11

In simpler terms, the latest episodes of “Ahoy’s Anthology Series” explore the legends of the Jersey Devil and a creature named Capelobo. These tales are satisfactory but have some storytelling hiccups that make them less captivating than other episodes focusing on cryptids. The Jersey Devil story has potential to be more engaging, but it’s bogged down by excessive explanations instead of focusing on the creation of a “Devil’s Playground” at a fake amusement park. The second story seems more cohesive but still has flaws in its narrative presentation. Overall, these episodes are decent additions to the series but not among its best. — Evan Valentine

Rating: 3 out of 5

RESIDENT ALIEN: THE BOOK OF LIFE #2

In “The Book of Life” #2, the pregnancy progresses rapidly, skillfully utilizing montage to advance the story without sacrificing crucial details or the heartfelt humanity of “Resident Alien.” The narrative focuses on family bonds and the mixture of anticipation and fear that comes before having a first child. Harry and Asta experience the usual symptoms of multiple trimesters, including morning sickness, alongside their individual challenges. The worry emanating from their various anxieties is sensitively depicted through nuanced facial expressions and authentic dialogue. This condensed timeline adds intrigue to “The Book of Life’s” second half, offering a surprise for readers who may have had different expectations. The unpredictability of the journey is what makes it so engaging.

Rating: 4 out of 5

SOMETHING IS KILLING THE CHILDREN #39

In the fourth installment of “Road Stories,” Something is Killing the Children continues to stand out as a top-tier series, impressively so with its 39th issue in play. James Tynion IV skillfully uses these self-contained tales to reveal more vulnerable sides of Erica Slaughter, and issue #39 offers an especially raw and relatable look at her emotional struggles. Although I don’t personally hunt monsters like Erica, the experience of dealing with grief and learning to compartmentalize emotions is a common theme many can connect with. Artists Werther Dell’Edera, Miquel Muerto, and Andworld Design expertly convey these subtle expressions and mannerisms, while flashbacks add even more depth and enigma regarding Jessica’s past. The “Road Stories” arc has become one of my favorites in this consistently excellent series, making it a must-read for fans.

Rating: 5 out of 5

STAR TREK: DEFIANT #17

The new storyline of Star Trek: Defiant begins boldly, plunging readers into the midst of a mission where the identities of Defiant‘s crew are concealed by physical alterations. In contrast, Star Trek: The Next Generation delved deeply into Klingon culture but neglected to explore the Romulan Star Empire as extensively. Defiant aims to rectify this omission by immersing its crew in a complex plot filled with Romulan deception and clandestine activities, providing valuable context for the workings of Romulan politics and enhancing our knowledge of Sela’s character. Additionally, Miles O’Brien experiences a challenging day at work on Earth, setting the stage for an intriguing new phase in the development of this beloved character. The artwork complements the darker tone of Defiant, with only occasional hiccups during brighter scenes. Overall, the beginning of this series’ next chapter is a compelling and engaging start.

Rating: 4 out of 5

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

In Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1, Aaron and Jones create a fresh take on the original TMNT comics from Mirage Publishing 40 years ago. They honor the classic series but aren’t overly tied to it, making the intricate Turtles universe approachable for new readers. — Jamie Lovett (paraphrased)

Rating: 4 out of 5

UNCANNY VALLEY #4

In issue #4 of “Uncanny Valley,” the story gains momentum as characters clash and the series’ villain makes an appearance. This installment sheds light on Oliver’s past and hints at potential consequences in a seemingly consequence-free cartoon world. Despite the escalating tension, it remains unclear what dangers any of these characters face. The whimsical art style by Fleecs further muddies the waters as the cliffhanger appears more like a joke than a serious threat. To fully appreciate the stakes, understanding how this world operates is crucial since the humor currently outshines the action.

Rating: 3 out of 5

UNDERHEIST #5

As I finished reading Underheist, I found myself at the bottom of a deep pit, both figuratively and literally. The dilemma David faced in deciding between loyalty to his companions and finding a way out was more apparent when read as a whole. Yet, even on its own, the ominous setting and Hell’s unveiling were captivating. New York City’s transformation into an unfamiliar landscape took my breath away, and the climax with its tense standoff left me on the edge of my seat – except for that one prolonged shootout. Although not all aspects came together seamlessly in this serialized format, the haunting final pages made me yearn to start over and relive every heart-wrenching moment on this descent into Hell.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

THE WRITER #2

When Stan encounters an unexpected encounter with his long-lost father, he discovers that his father had given him a mystical ring, believing it was destined for his son. The validity of this action is questionable, but irrelevant to the Nazis intent on harming Stan and his family. In this issue, Stan’s father quips, “Get ready for a lengthy backstory,” hinting at the issue’s heavy exposition. The narrative, which recalls past events, lacks tension and excitement, leaving readers to ponder their significance. With only two issues released, it raises questions if this story’s intricate religious mythology, monsters, and occult organizations would have been more effectively presented in a novel. Despite the impressive artwork, the current narrative fails to spark enthusiasm for the characters’ adventures. However, each element of this tale possesses inherent intrigue on its own, making one ponder if the combination in issue two simply doesn’t gel as well as in the first installment. — Paraphrased by me

Rating: 3 out of 5