Comic Book Reviews for This Week: 7/31/2024

DC #1

ABSOLUTE POWER: TASK FORCE VII #3

The initial issues of Task Force VII resembled extra scenes from the novel “Absolute Power,” focusing on minor details that didn’t contribute much to the main event miniseries but were too insignificant to stand alone. However, issue #3 of Absolute Power: Task Force VII addresses this issue by delving into the unusual link between Alan Scott and Jadestone from Amazo, providing a more detailed account of what has transpired with the Justice Society of America since Absolute Power #1. The story unfolds across various locations in the DC universe, making it beneficial to have prior knowledge, although the Oblivion Bar appearance offers some self-contained humor and entertaining cameos.

Rating: 3 out of 5

RED HOOD: THE HILL #6

The Last Installment of ‘Red Hood: The Hill’ Arrives, Leaving More of a Muffled Ending Than an Explosive Climax

Rating: 3 out of 5

SUPER-PETS SPECIAL: BITEDENTITY CRISIS #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

As a fellow gamer and comic book enthusiast, I can confidently say that “Super-Pets Special: Bitedentity Crisis” #1 is the perfect standalone issue that shines a well-deserved light on our often overlooked super-pets. It skillfully weaves together elements from renowned comics like “Watchmen”, providing an enjoyable and engaging narrative experience. If you’re eagerly awaiting New Comic Book Day every Wednesday, fear not about missing the latest from the DC universe. But if you’re craving something unique and offbeat, then “Super-Pets Special: Bitedentity Crisis” is definitely worth adding to your collection. — Tim Adams

Rating: 4 out of 5

Marvel #1

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #54

In Zeb Wells’ run on Amazing Spider-Man, the climax offers an awe-inspiring clash between Peter Parker, Norman Osborn, and their alter-egos, offering a fresh perspective on this classic rivalry that underscores the enduring spirit of Spider-Man and what makes him a hero. By issue #53, the stage is set for this epic battle, with Ed McGuinness (joined by top modern inkers) delivering an intense fight scene complete with striking splash pages and one spread encapsulating the very essence of Spider-Man. Although the specifics of Osborn’s transgressions remain unclear, the idea of him being detached from the Green Goblin is crucial to the unfolding events, keeping readers hooked even during a dreamlike action sequence. The narrative also includes humor from the supporting cast and concise wrap-ups for key storylines, but the focus remains on Spider-Man battling his arch-nemesis. This finale embodies heroism in a way that should become synonymous with it, reminding readers why Amazing Spider-Man continues to set the bar high in superhero comics. — Chase Magnett (paraphrased)

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

ANNIHILATION 2099 #5

The final installment of “Annihilation 2099” unfolds, with Dracula’s backstory serving as the main adversary for “Conquest 2099”. This ending, however, might feel underwhelming after four issues filled with concise origin tales and hints of impending turmoil. Yet, the predicted crisis in “Annihilation 2099” is precisely what was expected from the beginning, though accompanied by a skillfully crafted avian ally. This prelude paves the way for an enticing sequel, but it primarily stirs empathy towards Dracula without reaching a climax. Instead of culminating, issue #5 reads more like another setup, delaying the anticipation for this cosmic conflict until October. — Paraphrased by AI

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

BLACK WIDOW: VENOMOUS #1

Regardless of your feelings about the larger “Venom War” storyline, it’s hard to deny that Natasha Romanoff bonding with a symbiote makes sense in a clever way. The first installment breaking down this partnership is a bizarre and legitimately cool delight, as Erica Schultz’s script crafts a campy scenario to plunge the unlikely duo into. Luciano Vecchio’s art is some of my favorite of his yet, with kinetic action sequences and gorgeous designs. I have a feeling this is going to be one tie-in that’s not worth missing out. — Jenna Anderson

Rating: 4 out of 5

BLOOD HUNT #5

In the Blood Hunt saga, the Avengers find themselves with limited choices for overpowering Vernae, an ancient vampire. Doctor Strange strikes a questionable bargain that appears to be the sole means of defeating this menacing character, but it carries a heavy price for the Marvel Universe’s future. Given the supernatural and dark themes prevalent throughout Blood Hunt, the final issue delivers the thrilling, pulp-style action one might anticipate from such a concept. However, not every Marvel fan has been as enthused by this event.

Rating: 4 out of 5

CAPTAIN MARVEL #10

In issue #10 of Captain Marvel, Alyssa Wong concludes this current phase with an action-packed episode that’s among the series’ most thrilling. The narrative never lets up, and despite Captain Marvel’s immense power in the Marvel universe, Ruairi Coleman, Bryan Valenza, and Roberto Poggi expertly depict every blow, wound, and ache during her fight against The Undone. This new adversary offers a genuine threat to an underdeveloped rogues gallery, and Wong has certainly delivered.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

FANTASTIC FOUR #22

In simpler terms, the second installment of this “Blood Hunt” spinoff feels like it could have been a single issue. It delivers engaging plot points as Reed and Alicia face fresh hurdles, the farm family uses their powers effectively, and it ends with a heartwarming but predictable message for Mr. Fantastic. These elements were previously presented in the first part, and they had more impact the first time. Unfortunately, this issue seems to be stalling, made less enjoyable by artwork that often appears cramped and serves mainly to depict characters huddled in a stadium or other dimly lit locations. However, the final pages provide a clear reason for Fantastic Four fans to care about Blood Hunt events, offering an exciting cliffhanger to a largely forgettable tie-in. – Paraphrased by AI

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

Marvel #2

HELLVERINE #3

To fully enjoy the comic book titled “Hellverine”, it’s essential to have some understanding of what you’re diving into. Benjamin Percy, known for his impressive run on Ghost Rider, has now brought an exciting twist as the villainous Hood possesses the Spirit of Vengeance. It’s evident that Percy is relishing this opportunity by loading the current Ghost Rider with hellfire claws to the brim. Julius Ohta takes over this assignment, skillfully combining swift action sequences with particularly gruesome illustrations. “Hellverine” offers a thrilling roller coaster ride that fearlessly delves into the darker, supernatural corners of the Marvel universe. It effectively illuminates both Logan and Daken more vividly. – Evan Valentine

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

THE IMMORTAL THOR #13

In a nod to classic superhero comics of yesteryears, the structure of Immortal Thor #13 feels reminiscent. Al Ewing masterfully opens the book with a heartfelt dialogue between Thor and Hercules, discussing their personal losses and romantic lives. This conversation is not only believable but also portrays the camaraderie between two battle-hardened brothers. The dialog avoids forced humor, instead relying on authentic brotherly banter.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

MARVEL & DISNEY: WHAT IF…? DONALD DUCK BECAME WOLVERINE #1

Have you ever pondered over what Old Man Logan might appear like in a Disney-inspired style? Let your curiosity rest, for Marvel Comics has brought to life an English adaptation of Luca Barbieri and Giada Perissinotto’s “What If Donald Duck Became Wolverine?” The comic features Disneyfied versions of Mickey, Donald, and Goofy battling the Pete-Skull, who has seized control over Duckberg. This unusual piece showcases the violence, brutality, and shock of Old Man Logan but in a cute, Disney manner. Although classic Donald Duck comics are known for their whimsical charm and humor, this comic unfortunately lacked much of it, with only the joy of seeing iconic Disney characters dressing up as Marvel heroes to savour. As a devoted Donald Duck admirer, I found this comic book disappointing. — Christian Hoffer

Rating: 2 out of 5

MIDNIGHT SONS: BLOOD HUNT #3

In the initial half of “Midnight Sons: Blood Hunt” #3, things seem to move slowly, leading to an ending that feels abrupt and somewhat incongruous. The series artists Germán Peralta and Arthur Hesli are patient during the early pages, waiting for the big action scene. When it arrives, it’s spread across the layouts to create a smooth action rhythm, but it’s over so swiftly that you might find yourself questioning, “Is that all there is?” by the conclusion. Despite being an ideal Marvel event to resurrect this team, it failed to fully utilize its potential. – Spencer Perry

Rating: 3 out of 5

MS. MARVEL ANNUAL #1

As a gamer, I must give credit to Marvel for hooking me on the Infinity Stones over two consecutive weeks. The latest example being the fantastic Ms. Marvel Annual #1. To be honest, I was feeling a bit tired of Infinity Stones stories lately, but when Infinity Watch entered the scene, I wasn’t exactly thrilled. However, Immortal Thor cleverly spun that story, infusing it with charm and fun, which caught my attention. Now, Ms. Marvel’s Iman Vellani and Samir Pirzada have struck a home run yet again, skillfully incorporating the Soul Stone into the narrative without overshadowing the characters involved. Multitude is a character I am eager to follow now, largely due to the engaging interactions between Kamala Khan and the remarkable Ms. Marvel cast, as well as the intriguing family dynamics they bring along. The artistic team of Giada Belviso, Yen Nitro, and Joe Caramagna make the action sequences vibrant and showcase Multitude’s abilities, though their finest work lies in the everyday moments, whether it’s dealing with homecoming jitters or choosing which rollercoaster to ride. Kamala Khan alone elevates every character, but the Ms. Marvel Annual masterfully uses her presence to introduce another intriguing new hero. Even fans of Captain Marvel and Nick Fury get a treat in the backup story, making this an all-around win for Ms. Marvel enthusiasts like me. – Matthew Aguilar

Rating: 4 out of 5

SPIDER-GWEN: THE GHOST-SPIDER #3

In the ongoing thrill-ride of Gwen’s adventures in the 616 universe, Phillips and Mancin hint that Ghost-Spider might be receiving an upgrade, which is intriguing since a Chameleon, who seems to have undergone a similar transformation, poses a challenge. This third installment stands out as the strongest yet, offering poignant emotional scenes where Gwen reconnects with her father and grapples with making mistakes in the field. Despite my initial reservations about Gwen’s new role in 616 (as expressed in my previous reviews), this issue doesn’t resolve my concerns but does steer the series towards an intriguing path. Additionally, it’s great to see Black Tarantula reemerge as a menacing figure in New York City’s underworld again. – Review by Evan Valentine

Rating: 3 out of 5

Marvel #3

SPIDER-MAN: SHADOW OF THE GREEN GOBLIN #4

Legendary writer J.M. DeMatteis delves deep into Peter Parker’s past once more with the captivating “Shadow of the Green Goblin.” Not only does DeMatteis expertly navigate the complexity of character exploration, but he also crafts striking, fresh scenes that resonate not just with Spider-Man, but his entire supporting cast. This mini-series offers poignant moments unseen in the original comic book run and it would be a missed opportunity to overlook it as it seems integral to understanding the life of the web-slinger. If you’re a fan of Spider-Man, this comic is a must-read – according to Evan Valentine.

Rating: 5 out of 5

STAR WARS: DARTH MAUL – BLACK, WHITE & RED #4

As a dedicated gamer immersed in the Star Wars universe, I find myself delving into the story of Darth Maul, a character tasked by Emperor Palpatine to keep a low profile on a remote planet. Though he’s not seeking conflict, it seems chaos always clings to Maul, forcing him to reveal his darker persona just to preserve any semblance of peace. Normally, Maul thrives in supporting roles rather than being the main focus, but this issue primarily spotlights characters around him, their actions eventually drawing Maul into their lives. Even when he takes center stage, Maul is less ferocious than in previous issues, making this installment of the violent miniseries feel slightly underwhelming compared to the tales that preceded it. The experience, while not poor in quality, feels less impactful due to its reduced intensity. If the series had been planned for three issues or if this specific issue was released earlier, the narrative flow would have been stronger, but fans of Maul will still cherish every frame featuring our beloved Sith villain. — Patrick Cavanaugh

Rating: 3 out of 5

ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN #7

In a captivating reinterpretation of the classic Spider-Man saga, the ongoing series “Ultimate Spider-Man” continues to dazzle with its intricate tapestry of storytelling. Writer Jonathan Hickman skillfully weaves the Spider-Man mythos into an original and distinctive narrative realm. Not only does he keep reinventing the mythology, but he also manages to infuse it with a timeless and fantastical charm, all while anchoring it within a fresh, interconnected universe.

Rating: 5 out of 5

X-FORCE #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

In simpler terms, Adam Barnhardt believes that X-Force #1 fails to excel or distinguish itself within the realm of superhero storytelling, marking a lackluster start compared to some of Marvel’s finest X-Men eras. The issue is criticized for being unremarkable, and the character of Forge, who serves as the team’s focus, is described as hard to endure.

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

X-MEN: HEIR OF APOCALYPSE #4

In the climactic part of “Heir of Apocalypse,” we swiftly gloss over Archangel’s unexpected emergence and the reappearance of previously eliminated contestants, instead focusing on the final four characters. Each scene offers a brief analysis of these characters, but they seem disconnected from the miniseries thus far, appearing randomly without any clear conflict or defining the victor. These segments might be effective individually, but when combined, they create an odd impression, particularly when considering the ambiguous final sequence that leaves us uncertain about its outcome. Despite the miniseries achieving its purpose, it remains questionable if readers will feel compelled to revisit it again.

Rating: 2 out of 5

Image #1

THE DEPARTMENT OF TRUTH #24

In essence, Christian Hoffer’s review of ‘The Department of Truth’s’ exploration on Lee Harvey Oswald suggests that it presents a man who is unwillingly thrust into a precarious position by external forces and fails to find the strength to resist. The most captivating aspects of this narrative revolve around Oswald’s internal struggle to escape his predetermined path, even reaching out to seemingly unrelated individuals for help, only to be met with no avail. Despite the ongoing issues within ‘The Department of Truth’, this storyline leaves many intriguing questions about one of America’s most significant historical events and one of the comic’s enduring mysteries.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

DRAWING BLOOD #4

In the recent edition of Drawing Blood, the comic has stepped beyond its usual boundaries, as evidenced by the inclusion of series co-creator Kevin Eastman in a cameo and a narrative heavily influenced by real events involving Eastman and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. It’s intriguing, but leaves one pondering the comic’s intentions. While hints of a larger plot are present, they are somewhat overshadowed. Fortunately, Ben Bishop’s artwork, colored by Tomi Varga, continues to be visually appealing. The issue also includes a supplementary story by Amanda Deibert, Skylar Patridge, and Ellie Wright, which surprisingly outshines the main story that preceded it – Spencer Perry.

Rating: 3 out of 5

THE FORGED #9

In every issue of The Forged, each chapter significantly shifts the narrative and concludes its third installment in #9 is no less exceptional. While astute readers (and those delving into supplementary materials) may have noticed hints earlier, this comic’s most significant surprise to date unfolds within these pages, skillfully executed.

Rating: 4 out of 5

GROMMETS #3

As a gamer diving into issue #3 of Grommets, I’m struck by the way this comic builds its diverse cast amidst the chaos of teenage life. The witty banter about smoking weed and flirting with girls keeps things lighthearted, but there’s a sharp edge to it all that adds a bittersweet note to any nostalgia. The friendship between Rick and Brian serves as the honest, if not entirely innocent, core of this story.

Rating: 4 out of 5

LORE REMASTERED #2

Co-authors T.P. Louise and Ashley Wood consistently challenge the boundaries of traditional horror literature by seamlessly integrating diverse art styles and narrative plots. Their work, which plunges us into a chilling realm of monsters and clandestine groups, is so intricate and mind-boggling that it’s hard to succinctly describe. Breaking down these events might do the book an injustice, but one thing is clear: Louise and Wood aren’t afraid to tackle tough themes, even if some readers find it disconcerting. Fans of horror will find their minds stretched to the limit, yet they may not be able to predict how they’ll piece things back together, as this story isn’t easy to grasp. Prepare for a rollercoaster ride unlike any other in the realm of horror comics—the second issue of Lore, written by Patrick Cavanaugh, might just drive you a little mad!

Rating: 4 out of 5

NIGHTS #9

In the heart of summer, you wouldn’t typically find a festive Christmas edition of a comic book. However, I’m not one to grumble about a holiday escapade! This New York City journey offers much more than just winter feelings, advancing each character’s plot swiftly, and maintaining the excellent pace that “Nights” has been keeping for the past few months. — Charlie Ridgely

Rating: 4 out of 5

SAGA #67

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

As a devoted fan, I can’t hide my excitement as Saga comes back after another long absence, opening with a self-referential first page that echoes the anticipation we all feel. This sense of familiarity is especially strong for those who embarked on this journey 12 years ago when Hazel was born in Saga #1. Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate how this series leverages its serialization format, delivering fresh twists, unforgettable scenes, and nail-biting cliffhangers issue after issue. Despite occasional delays, which admittedly caused some frustration, I can confidently say that Saga‘s return in #67 was more than worth the wait. It continues to captivate me with its enchanting, exhilarating, and often tear-jerking narrative, chronicling Hazel’s journey from childhood to adulthood. — Chase Magnett

Rating: 4 out of 5

Other Publishers #1

ANANSI BOYS #2

Similar to the preceding problem, “Anansi Boys” #2 reads like a section of a book intended for continuous reading. It picks up right where the last issue ended and concludes abruptly without much notice. The artwork is straightforward and easy to understand, with compositions leaning towards flatter designs and consistent four-panel layouts. Some might label it as a comic tailored for those new to comics, yet it aligns well with its character-driven plot. The unique portrayal of mundane characters through their diverse body shapes and distinct styles is noteworthy.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

ARCHIE COMICS: JUDGMENT DAY #3

“Archie Comics: Judgment Day” #3: The Bleak Conclusion of Riverdale’s Apocalypse

Rating: 2 out of 5

THE BUTCHER’S BOY #3

In the third installment of “The Butcher’s Boy,” the boundary between hallucination and reality becomes more distinct, as flashbacks from the initial issue reappear, adding layers of complexity to their interpretation. However, the narrative fails to clearly establish whose perspective we are following, making it difficult to distinguish one from another. This ambiguity is both intriguing and puzzling.

Rating: 3 out of 5

FIREFLY ‘VERSES #1

In the first issue of Firefly ‘Verses, the speed is akin to a sluggish snail battling sickness, offering a meticulous exploration of its science-fiction environment by writers Parrott and Sharma. However, even though the progress is leisurely, the artwork duo of Sharma and Segala delivers thrilling action scenes when necessary. The issue could benefit from more frequent action sequences. — Adam Barnhardt

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

GHOSTLORE #12

In Ghostlor #12, the story reaches its conclusion with a quieter ending than anticipated, leaning towards the predictable at times. The protagonists, Lucas and Harmony, along with their companions, engage in a brief, intense skirmish against Shane, but it’s more of a swift conflict rather than a traditional face-off. Harmony experiences an unexpected crisis of faith, only to resolve it with a breakthrough that alters the entire narrative. The story ultimately circles back to its roots, emphasizing that peacefully passing on involves sharing one’s story. Although this return to the beginning is heartwarming, it seems somewhat clichéd and stereotypical for the troubled cynic to find redemption through significant sacrifice. However, artistically, the issue offers some striking horror sequences that add an intriguing visual appeal. –Nicole Drum

Rating: 3 out of 5

GRIM #19

I really enjoy how each of these latest issues have been shining a light on different characters and their backstories, with this one focusing on Annabel. With minimal action in the issue, the art team truly shines in capturing the characters’ expressions, particularly the scenes set in 1965. The colors and emotions portrayed on the faces of the characters are so vivid they could tell a story on their own. It’s impressive when a comic can produce an outstanding issue without its main character even making an appearance. – Tim Adams

Rating: 5 out of 5

HOUSE OF SLAUGHTER #25

In the gripping final chapter of “The Butcher’s War” in House of Slaughter #25, the creative team crafts a fitting finale for the last scion of Family Boucher, Jace. Throughout his journey marked by countless hardships and sorrow, every page resonates with the burden he carries. Writer Tage Brombal has skillfully guided readers through Jace’s transformation, but now there’s only one path left – a road artfully depicted by Antonio Faso and Miquel Muerto. As our hero confronts overwhelming adversity, it’s impossible not to rally for him even though the outcome seems inevitable. The moments leading up to his leap are some of the most impactful in the entire issue. Jace’s tale may have concluded, but the voyage left a lasting impression on the series. – Matthew Aguilar (Paraphrased version)

Rating: 5 out of 5

MASTERPIECE #6

In this stylish turn of events, Masterpiece and her team outwit Zero Preston. This intricate dance of manipulation and retribution was nothing short of a grand masterwork, deeply personal in nature. For a brief moment, we were treated to a delightful appearance by Masterpiece’s parents. The visual artists had the opportunity to dazzle us with surreal hallucination scenes, yet at its heart, Masterpiece remains grounded in raw, realistic storytelling – all according to Tim Adams.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Other Publishers #2

MIGHTY MORPHIN POWER RANGERS: DARKEST HOUR #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

After eight years of an epic adventure that set a lofty standard for Power Rangers stories, it’s now time to close this grand saga in style. This momentous event unfolds in the eagerly awaited Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Darkest Hour #1, and trust me, wrapping up this eight-year journey wouldn’t be a walk in the park. But the talented crew of Melissa Flores, Simona Di Gianfelice, Raul Angulo, Jose Enrique Fernandez, Ed Dukeshire, editors Allyson Gronowitz and Kenzie Rzonca, pulled it off magnificently, even adding a few surprising twists that will linger in your memory, especially if you’ve been on this journey since the start. — Matthew Aguilar (a gamer speaking from personal experience)

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Other Publishers #3

MIGHTY MORPHIN POWER RANGERS: DARKEST HOUR #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

Following an impressive 8-year run that significantly elevated the Power Rangers franchise and their storytelling potential, it’s now time to bid farewell to this grand, larger-than-life tale. This climactic event unfolds in the highly anticipated comic series Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Darkest Hour #1. Ending such an extended journey in a fitting manner was never going to be straightforward, but the creative team of Melissa Flores, Simona Di Gianfelice, Raul Angulo, Jose Enrique Fernandez, Ed Dukeshire, and editors Allyson Gronowitz and Kenzie Rzonca have pulled it off. They even included a few surprising moments that will linger in your memory, especially for those who’ve followed the series since its beginning. — Matthew Aguilar

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

THE ODDLY PEDESTRIAN LIFE OF CHRISTOPHER CHAOS #11

As The Oddly Pedestrian Life of Christopher Chaos unfolds as a collaborative series, each episode gains depth from its fragmented viewpoints and interwoven stories. It’s accurate to note that issue #11 presents four distinct viewpoints, and even those who appear villainous unveil intricate layers of complexity and empathy. The groundwork laid in the initial arc is growing, and each new character or encounter adds a dash of pop art appeal. Heartfelt exchanges at home and school provide almost as much humor and thrill as the series’ action-packed episodes. With numerous plot pots simmering on this metaphorical stove, even issues like this—focused on watching them all reach their boiling point—make for a captivating installment. — Chase Magnett

Rating: 4 out of 5

OPERATION SUNSHINE: ALREADY DEAD #4

In the final installment of Operation Sunshine: Already Dead, the story wraps up but falls short in both narrative and functional aspects. Functionally, the plot struggles with pacing and clarity, as the climactic confrontation feels hurried and fragmented, lacking proper explanation. There’s no clear exposition of the situation, only disconnected action sequences that lead to a surprise revelation about Hex’s bracelet. The resolution follows, offering character outcomes without much explanation, leaving us with an ambiguous ending – a sunset ride-off that feels more like a hastily assembled conclusion than a well-crafted one. This finale hints at the untapped potential of the story but fails to fully realize it. – Nicole Drum

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

RICK AND MORTY: KINGDOM BALLS #4

The ending of Rick and Morty’s Kingdom Hearts spoof wraps up satisfactorily. The script by Josh Trujillo and Ryan Little is playful but not particularly standout, while Jarrett Williams’ artwork maintains a sense of imagination, particularly with the more abstract visual elements. Although it had some amusing and intelligent moments, it’s not essential reading for fans of either series. — Jenna Anderson

Rating: 3 out of 5

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #71

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but express my admiration for Sonic the Hedgehog #71. This comic masterfully weaves mystery, tension, and character development in a way that’s captivating regardless of the genre, yet it manages to remain accessible for young readers – a truly remarkable achievement!

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: BLACK, WHITE, & GREEN #3

The third installment of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Black, White, & Green series remains charming. Following the pattern from issues 1 and 2, this issue presents four tales, each centered around a turtle or an aspect of their narrative. Although the initial story, “The Beast That Bleeds Green,” seems slightly confusing in its conclusion, the subsequent stories, “Sin Sewer” and “Miami Vacation,” are truly enjoyable with distinctly different moods and tempos. Notably, “Miami Vacation” is both amusing and carries a positive message about open-mindedness, while “Sin Sewer” offers a fantastic noir aesthetic. (Paraphrased by me, AI)

Rating: 4 out of 5

WILLIAM OF NEWBURY #3

In issue #3, William of Newbury clarifies the events concerning William and his brother, shedding new light on their strained relationship. It seems that Edward’s involvement in church politics isn’t just about managing an institution, but rather it stems from a differing perspective on salvation. He believes that interacting with the supernatural, which he refers to as “fae,” could exacerbate problems instead of solving them, preferring to demonstrate his devotion and leave outcomes in God’s hands entirely. Conversely, William is driven to improve the lives of those around him more tangibly, confronting supernatural threats head-on. This dynamic mirrors an age-old debate between faith and action, played out against a backdrop where evil forces are omnipresent. The introduction of Winnie, who serves as the pragmatic skeptic, adds depth to the characters and reinforces the series’ weekly structure focused on demonic possession. Oeming’s dark shadows create a striking contrast with the vibrant green tones that highlight supernatural energy. While there are some awkward phrases in this issue’s dialogue, it is a minor flaw in an otherwise exceptional new series from 2024. If the quality remains consistent, William could soon join the ranks of legendary adventure heroes such as Hellboy, Miyamoto Usagi, and The Goon in Dark Horse Comics’ pantheon. – Jamie Lovett

Rating: 4.5 out of 5