Comic Book Reviews for This Week: 8/7/2024

DC #1

ABSOLUTE POWER #2

In a whirlwind fashion, Absolute Power pushes forward with substantial intensity. Mark Waid’s script brims with intense action, interspersed with poignant character moments, all of which unfold at an exhilarating pace. Dan Mora’s stunning artwork continues to captivate, pulsating with energy even in the darkest and most gruesome scenes. Though we’re still unraveling the complete narrative of Absolute Power, this issue provides crucial and indispensable insights. — Jenna Anderson

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

BATMAN #151

In issue #151 of Batman, which serves as a tie-in for the “Absolute Power” event, offers a strong performance. The comic features a team-up between Batman and Catwoman, involving undercover missions and a clever plan by the World’s Greatest Detective that experiences a slight deviation, providing excellent story opportunities while still respecting their long-standing relationship. Although the primary story is good, the Harley Quinn backup story truly shines and feels like a self-contained tale not reliant on being a tie-in. This story accurately reflects Harley’s character development and current in-story arc, making it enjoyable to read. — by Nicole Drum

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

BATMAN AND ROBIN AND HOWARD: SUMMER BREAKDOWN #2

In a humorous twist, Batman emerges as the unspoken comedian within “Batman and Robin” and “Howard”. His constant overthinking and analysis gel particularly with Talia al Ghul, while Robin seems indifferent to their strained relationship. On the other hand, the dynamic between Damian Wayne and Howard has been a delightful spectacle, filled with more laughter than anticipated. This shift in tone is largely credited to Talia and her team of ninjas. Additionally, two unexpected guest stars made an appearance on the last page, adding yet another layer of amusement. — Tim Adams

Rating: 4 out of 5

BIRDS OF PREY #12

In the penultimate chapter of “World Without End,” Kelly Thompson’s writing continues to shine, showcasing the reasons this series is exceptional. Her script skillfully combines intelligence and sincerity as she navigates the intricate team dynamics, with their escape from the pocket dimension becoming increasingly complex. Javier Pina, Gavin Guidry, Sophie Campbell (with her adorable chibi drawings), and Jordie Bellaire collaborate to produce art that is as innovative and boundary-pushing as it gets. Campbell’s illustrations serve as a delightful interlude, while Bellaire’s color work evokes the feel of animation cels, making this comic book a true standout – a blockbuster in every sense, as demonstrated by Jenna Anderson.

Rating: 5 out of 5

BLUE BEETLE #11

In Blue Beetle #11, the current storyline of DC’s Blue Beetle ends, but instead of wrapping up loose ends, it lays the groundwork for a fresh start. The creative team comprising writer Josh Trujillo, artist Adrian Gutierrez, colorist Wil Quintana, and letterer Lucas Gattoni delve into the aftermath of the Pinnacle project, an event that significantly impacts nearly everyone involved. This issue feels more like a stepping stone to a new storyline, advancing personal relationships and painting a vivid picture of an impending battle. The heartfelt conversations between friends and family remain the series’ highlight, with a moving dialogue between Jaime and his father standing out as the book concludes. The artwork by Gutierrez, Quintana, and Gattoni throughout the issue is breathtaking, and while it’s disappointing to see the story come to an end prematurely, it serves as a heartfelt goodbye to one of DC’s underappreciated series, according to Matthew Aguilar.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

DC #2

THE BOY WONDER #4

In issue #4 of “The Boy Wonder,” Damian Wayne undergoes a personal crisis, starting from his violent family history and unfulfilled expectations. This journey leads him to a cave where he confronts his deepest fears. The comic offers a nuanced portrayal of Damian, steering clear of typical superhero tropes and preachy moral lessons. Instead, it delves into the intricacies of intergenerational trauma and the irreversible nature of actions like murder, making the story relatable to human experiences.

Rating: 5 out of 5

GOTHAM CITY SIRENS #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

In a fresh twist on the Gotham City Sirens storyline, the latest version doesn’t change the dynamic of the trio entirely, but it does amplify their strong points as beloved femme fatales. The new take on Gotham City Sirens has an engaging and lively atmosphere that could benefit from some finesse in a few areas to make it truly outstanding, but overall, it sets a promising foundation for this group of anti-heroines. – — Evan Valentine

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

KNEEL BEFORE ZOD #8

Title character Jenna Anderson shares her thoughts on the concluding part of Zod’s initial solo series: “This final installment (for now) landed with a somewhat disappointing thud. Joe Casey’s script offers some amusing character moments, but throughout – from Camus’ opening quote to the closing scenes – there’s an air of empty pretentiousness. Dan McDaid’s artwork seems too chaotic and whimsical for this tone, although a few panels do stand out as truly impactful. Reading Kneel Before Zod wasn’t entirely regretful, but it was definitely an unmemorable journey.”

Rating: 2 out of 5

MY ADVENTURES WITH SUPERMAN #3

Title #3 of “My Journey with Superman” maintains the traditional, heartfelt Superman narrative by skillfully interweaving Clark Kent’s personal life and Superman’s heroic duties. Both personas prioritize doing what is right, even when it challenges authoritative figures who may come across as rigid or unethical. In this installment, the focus shifts more towards Superman’s associates, with Lois Lane and Jimmy Olsen playing lesser roles. However, two other significant individuals in Superman’s life take center stage. Despite a somewhat foreseeable twist at the end, the story remains genuinely reminiscent of classic, moral Superman tales, offering an honest depiction of a traditional and virtuous Superman adventure. –By Nicole Drum

Rating: 4 out of 5

SHAZAM! #14

Amidst the escalating chaos brought on by the surge of submen, reading “Shazam!” becomes an entertaining experience as it juggles focus between the eldest Batson siblings. Though Billy remains reluctant to reinstate The Captain, this tension is offset by Mary and Freddy’s heroic efforts. Mary teams up with an endearing Uncle Dudley to confront the monsters head-on as subway tunnel events become increasingly perilous. Simultaneously, Freddy devises a strategy that blends humor and explanation while highlighting his unique character traits. The developing danger from monsters (and other magical entities) against the backdrop of a tumultuous yet never gloomy family life results in a vibrant tale promising an even more spectacular adventure next issue. In essence, “Shazam! #14” showcases the strengths of Shazam comics within the superhero genre.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Marvel #1

THE AVENGERS #17

As a long-time fan of Valerio Schiti’s art, I must admit that the recent change to his style has left me taken aback. With over two decades spent following the adventures of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, I’ve grown accustomed to the familiar and vibrant visual language that Schiti brought to the table. But it seems that a different colorist may be responsible for this shift, leaving me wondering what direction the comic series will take next.

Rating: 3 out of 5

BLOOD HUNTERS #1

Blood Hunters #1: A Dull Pursuit in the Shadows of Marvel’s “Blood Hunt” Event

Rating: 2 out of 5

DAREDEVIL #12

In many Daredevil comics, faith takes a backseat. However, Saladin Ahmed made sure to move the character’s faith front and center in issue #12. This issue is a delight for the Man Without Fear as it puts Daredevil right at the forefront. The comic also features Kuder’s masterful portrayal of supernatural beings, similar to his work on Ghost Rider. As a result, this issue is as well-rounded as a Daredevil comic can get. Moreover, Ahmed does an excellent job developing Kingpin too! – Adam Barnhardt

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

DOCTOR STRANGE #18

In his final installment of Doctor Strange, Jed MacKay opts against explosive action or novel magic sequences, instead focusing on introspective reflection. The series artist, Pasqual Ferry, tackles the thought-provoking, low-action script brilliantly, translating Stephen Strange’s contemplation into visual artistry. A prolonged scene between Strange and Clea, for instance, subtly demonstrates this through the progressively closer framing of the characters in successive panels. This ending serves as a celebratory send-off, skillfully preparing the groundwork for the next writer, and it might just be one of the best such transitions in recent memory. — Spencer Perry

Rating: 5 out of 5

THE INCREDIBLE HULK #15

In the course of its storyline, does a significant superhero comic series occasionally deviate mid-run by setting the narrative 3,600 years ago and focusing on characters you’ve never encountered before? This approach might seem risky, potentially disrupting an outstanding series. However, in the case of The Incredible Hulk, Johnson & co. consistently manage to uphold exceptional quality, as proven by Charlie Ridgely.

Rating: 5 out of 5

THE SPECTACULAR SPIDER-MEN #6

Peter Parker (Spider-Man) and Miles Morales are still caught in Arcane and Mentallo’s robotic ordeal, facing a mix of robotics and organically enhanced familiar enemies now. Weisman and Ramos continue to excel in their work, demonstrating exceptional skill, particularly with their previous involvement with Spider-Man from Marvel Comics. While some classic villains make an appearance, Weisman is introducing a fresh antagonist into the Spider-Man universe, serving as a dramatic climax for this storyline. Once more, Spectacular Spider-Men stands out as the premier Spider-Man series on the market today, with no signs of slowing down in quality anytime soon. – Evan Valentine

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

SPIDER-MAN: BLACK SUIT & BLOOD #1

As a diehard Spidey fan here, let me tell you about an intriguing new anthology series: “Spider-Man: Black Suit & Blood.” With its monochromatic art and somber tone, it delves deeper into the web-slinger’s world than ever before. Despite the darkness that permeates this series, Spider-Man’s stories remain remarkably optimistic, even in the face of violence and tragedy.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Marvel #2

SPIDER-MAN: REIGN 2 #2

Reframing the concept: Exploring an aged Peter Parker grappling with his past missteps as a young adult offers intrigue for a serial narrative; this was what set Old Man Logan apart. In contrast, it appears that the current storyline lacks depth in Peter’s character development. His obsessive quest for vengeance repeats the same plot points excessively, eventually becoming tiresome. Despite this, the secondary narrative focusing on characters other than Peter remains engaging and enjoyable to read. – Charlie Ridgely

Rating: 2 out of 5

STAR WARS: INQUISITORS #2

The Pursuit of Jedi Tensu Run by the Fifth Inquisitor: An Unexpected Game of Cat and Mouse

Rating: 4 out of 5

STAR WARS: THE HIGH REPUBLIC #10

As a long-time fan of Star Wars lore, I can’t help but feel a sense of familiarity as I read through “High Republic.” This feels like the closing act of a tale that I know is destined for further chapters. The story doesn’t quite wrap up neatly, and at times it leaves me questioning the significance of the past 10 issues, but the finale delivers an unexpected twist that places me right where I didn’t realize I needed to be. It may not be perfect, but “High Republic” reaches its destination and successfully ignites my curiosity for what lies ahead in this expansive universe. — Charlie Ridgely (Star Wars enthusiast)

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

ULTIMATE BLACK PANTHER #7

As a dedicated gamer, diving into the world of Ultimate Black Panther, I find myself drawn to its pulsating narrative. However, there are moments when it seems like we’re treading water instead of moving forward. The build-up of tension and excitement always seems to hit a sudden halt for reasons that aren’t quite clear – whether it’s due to plot twists or a hesitation to fully commit to certain ideas.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

UNCANNY X-MEN #1

The Uncanny X-Men initiates as the initial title in the “From the Ashes” X-series, demonstrating a well-defined objective in its premiere issue – a testament to the expertise of seasoned superhero writer Gail Simone. Instead of pursuing an abstract concept, the series concentrates on a primary group of beloved X-Men: Wolverine, Rogue, and Gambit (with Nightcrawler making an appearance). The narrative clarifies their identities following Krakoa’s downfall and sets the stage for a series of adventures to deepen their bonds and lay foundations for future turmoil. Although the storyline is rich in foreshadowing, it offers much for readers to appreciate, including a dragon fight and an emotional scene at a hospital. Each scene contributes to the plot and strengthens the bond between the trio as they face challenges they can’t fully comprehend, portraying them more as a family than a superhero team. Artist David Marquez effectively balances both large-scale action sequences and intimate emotional scenes within the issue. Readers can marvel at an Aztec-inspired dragon in dramatic panels, but these breathtaking moments never overshadow the warmth found among the core trio and their quest. In summary, it promises a highly engaging new start as the X-line redefines its new normal.

Rating: 4 out of 5

VENOM WAR #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

The “Venom War” series uniquely expands upon all that has transpired before it. It not only acknowledges each of Venom’s hosts throughout the years, but also delves into the various aspects of his character development over time, which have been crucial in reaching this point. This encompasses a substantial amount of continuity spanning decades, as well as diverse interpretations of the character. Artist Iban Coello strives to give the character his own distinctive visual style while maintaining a balance between fan expectations. Writer Ewing generally manages to strike this balance throughout the issue, launching the event in an entertaining manner; however, its less engaging aspects seem to be operating at a lower gear.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

WOLVERINE: DEEP CUT #2

Claremont’s distinctive mark of his unique mutant style permeates throughout the entirety of Wolverine: Deep Cut #2, from flipping open the cover to setting it down after a thrilling read. This comic serves as a heartfelt homage to all X-Men, both fresh and classic faces. Moreover, Edgar Salazar’s somber line art significantly enhances the overall experience. – Adam Barnhardt

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Image #1

AIN’T NO GRAVE #4

The fourth-to-last issue of the “Ain’t No Grave” series, remarkably, says much without words, creating a profoundly impactful silence. In this near wordless issue, we witness Ryder being metaphorically buried by her past, present, and future as she bravely confronts Death. Although some might argue that the depicted stage of grief in this issue, depression, may not perfectly align with the traditional stages, there’s a tremendous emotional weight in observing Ryder reflect on her journey thus far. The storytelling artistry is exceptional, making it one of the standout issues in the series. — Nicole Drum

Rating: 4 out of 5

C.O.W.L. 1964 #1

The newest addition to the Massive-Verse is a welcomed return for fans who have followed Kyle Higgins and Rod Reis’ work. The third installment of “C.O.W.L.” picks up a few years after the end of the previous volume, deepening both the storyline of the title and the broader Massive-Verse. Not only does Higgins and Siegel’s script offer impressive world-building, but Reis’ artwork perfectly captures the mid-century atmosphere. This new indie superhero book promises to be an outstanding debut. – Adam Barnhardt

Rating: 4 out of 5

THE DEVIANT #7

Charlie Ridgely remarkably points out that The Deviant masterfully expands the ongoing narrative beyond a single individual, even with the main character’s recent absence for a few issues. Instead, the plot continues to thrive, demonstrating an increasing energy. Each character is richly developed and complex, further intensifying the haunting enigma that permeates the comic book series.

Rating: 5 out of 5

FREE AGENTS #2

Evan Valentine expresses his disappointment with the comic series, “Free Agents,” created by Busiek, Nicieza, and Mooney. The team, reminiscent of classic superhero groups, fails to develop the characters effectively – Salvo, Katari, Maraud, Shakti, Pike, Chalice, and Ridge – leaving them uninteresting and underdeveloped. This lack of character depth weakens the impact of key moments in issue 2. The narrative is also cluttered, making it challenging to unravel the integrated mysteries. Additionally, the artwork has noticeable flaws, such as characters’ eyes disappearing at times and a scarcity of environment details in certain panels. Valentine questions if this series can recover from its current course.

Rating: 1.5 out of 5

KAYA #20

Title Arc for “Kaya” Comic Series Intensifies as Kaya and Jin Traverse the Dragon Road, Setting Up Promising Storylines Ahead

Rating: 4 out of 5

Image #2

THE POWER FANTASY #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

At the conclusion of issue #1 of “The Power Fantasy”, readers are left with a sense of anticipation, as if they’re standing on the edge of a precipice, bracing for an imminent explosion – or maybe six such explosions. It’s a tension that’s both subtle and gripping, promising layers of drama, mystery, complexity, and significance. In essence, “The Power Fantasy” is poised to revolutionize the superhero comic genre. — Jamie Lovett

Rating: 5 out of 5

PUBLIC DOMAIN #7

In Public Domain #7, there’s a particularly impactful conversation about dialogue, and it stands out because Zdarsky’s dialogue throughout the issue is exceptional. The comic also features humorous elements like Carter Dusk’s outrageous lifestyle and his artist friend, but these never overshadow the genuine emotions that emanate from almost every character in the story. Scenes such as office meetings and a visit to the local bar are made more profound through the dialogue and expressions, providing as much subtext as text in many panels. What’s remarkable about Public Domain #7 is how it manages to make ordinary situations feel so powerful. This comic still has the witty charm and American comics references that made the series popular, but what truly sets it apart is its ability to make the mundane extraordinary. — Chase Magnett

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

SCARLETT #3

In the third installment of Scarlett, writer Kelly Thompson delivers an exhilarating, non-stop thrill ride that leaves readers breathless. The story takes us from the depths of the ocean to the heights of the sky, with intense hand-to-hand combat sequences in between. This action-packed adventure is masterfully illustrated by Marco Ferrari, colored by Lee Loughridge, and lettered by Rus Wooton. The fighting scenes are grandiose yet realistic, reflecting Scarlett’s exceptional skills amidst the chaos. A long-awaited reunion and hints of powerful figures on the horizon make this issue a must-read and one of my top picks for the week. — Matthew Aguilar

Rating: 5 out of 5

SWEET PAPRIKA: BLACK, WHITE, & PINK #2

In the second installment of “Sweet Paprika: Black, White, & Pink,” readers are treated to a delightful collection of humorous and alluring tales set within the Paprika universe. The captivating stories in this issue are sure to be devoured by fans with relish.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Other Publishers #1

ARKHAM HORROR: THE TERROR AT THE END OF TIME #1

The tabletop series, “Arkham Horror,” has made its way into comic books. The creative team behind “Parasomnia,” Cullen Bunn and Andrea Mutti, are responsible for the new miniseries, “Arkham Horror: The Terror at the End of Time.” This series introduces characters Joe Diamond and Jenny Barnes from the popular tabletop games. The “Arkham Horror” franchise blends Lovecraftian horror with pulp and noir elements, and it appears that Bunn and Mutti have a solid grasp of how this differs from typical cosmic horror narratives. Despite being a licensed comic, Bunn seems to be an ideal fit for the franchise due to his frequent exploration of these themes in his other works. Even if you’re not familiar with the franchise, this comic offers a compelling representation of “Arkham Horror.” — Christian Hoffer

Rating: 4 out of 5

BEYOND THE PALE #3

In the latest edition of Beyond the Pale, the plot twists are far more brutal than anticipated, effectively capturing the eerie atmosphere of setting a horror comic amidst the Vietnam War. To surpass the grim realities of the war itself, the creative team introduces a chilling twist – American soldiers at Tartarus Base were offering human sacrifices to an enigmatic occult entity discovered in the jungle. What makes this twist even more terrifying is that the victims weren’t just enemy prisoners, but their own comrades, selected from fresh recruits. This shocking revelation promises a perilous and nerve-wracking conclusion for the horror comic enthusiast. — Christian Hoffer

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

CANTO: A PLACE LIKE HOME #3

In the initial two installments of Canto‘s concluding phase, the focus was on intense battles. However, now that a significant event in the storyline has transpired, the series shifts to a more leisurely pace, maintaining its engaging narrative thread. Writer David M. Booher and artist Drew Zucker are keeping readers hooked by not only reinforcing their previous work but also skillfully introducing crucial new plot points that will significantly impact the entire series. Moreover, Zucker’s artwork remains impressive, with Vittorio Astone’s colors adding depth and innovation to the visual style of the series while effectively telling its story. — Spencer Perry

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

CYBERPUNK 2077: KICKDOWN #2

As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but immerse myself in the gripping narrative of “Kickdown” #2. The story delves deeper into the life of our protagonist, a double agent, as she navigates the treacherous waters of local gangs while maintaining her police ties incognito. The crux of the plot revolves around a seemingly straightforward mission: retrieving a target to earn trust, but the execution unravels an intricate web of mystery and suspense.

Rating: 4 out of 5

DEADWEIGHTS #5

As a gamer, I’ve got to say that issue #5 of Deadweights delivers some breathtaking visual storytelling, but it doesn’t quite break new ground when it comes to character development. The twist about Cannonbulk’s struggle with accepting his mutant identity feels jarring and seems to reinterpret a lot of what we’ve seen so far in the series.

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

GARFIELD #1

In this two-part book, the main story unfolds much like a sequence of Garfield comic strips, divided by days of the week, creating quick, witty, and amusing situations that center around Garfield’s cravings for late-night snacks. The secondary story concentrates solely on Jon Arbuckle when Garfield and Odie are absent, with an anticlimactic ending revealing they were off having adventures in “The Garfield Movie.” Despite the first half not being particularly noteworthy, it manages to maintain the essence of the original material and presents a fresh visual take on these iconic characters. The secondary story could use some improvement, but it effectively portrays the fear restaurants have of Garfield, who earns names like “beast” and “tornado” due to his voracious eating habits. Overall, the book is relatively harmless and might encourage younger readers to explore Jim Davis’ classic works. — Patrick Cavanaugh

Rating: 3 out of 5

GODZILLA: HERE THERE BE DRAGONS II – SONS OF GIANTS #2

As a gamer diving into “Godzilla: Here There Be Dragons II – Sons of Giants” #2, I found myself once again immersed in Inaki Miranda’s tale, this time with a twist on the classic Beowulf saga, infused with a kaiju flavor. However, much like its predecessor, it seems the narrative is juggling three distinct storylines – the kaiju legend, ancient Rome’s mysteries, and the kidnapping of an American journalist. While the first tale stands independently, the other two appear to be moving at a leisurely pace.

Rating: 2 out of 5

Other Publishers #2

THE GOON: THEM THAT DON’T STAY DEAD

In this particular issue, the authors delve deeply into the backstories of ‘The Goon’ and ‘Zombie Priest,’ filling many pages to explain their respective paths. While these characters’ past actions such as Frankie’s eye-stabbing habit and the violence inflicted on the undead are entertaining, it feels like a rehash for readers who have followed the series, almost like a summary page. The same can be said about the Zombie Priest’s conversations that touch upon his destiny and that of his villainous associates. Although this background information might help newcomers, it undeniably slows down the fast-paced rhythm of a comic characterized by action and humor. This issue, filled with noteworthy moments, ends up serving as a setup for more engaging content in future installments. — Paraphrased by AI

Rating: 3 out of 5

GRENDEL: DEVIL’S ODYSSEY – DEFIANCE #2

Following the discovery of new allies, Grendel Prime learns about Earth’s recent past, offering insights previously left for readers to infer during his initial exploration in issue #1. This information not only gives Prime’s new friends unique characteristics and roles, but also provides a perspective from Grendel’s viewpoint on the last few centuries of strife. The information is presented concisely, using detailed montage pages filled with untold tales of Grendels and mass deaths that Prime had missed while he was in space travel. This also underscores how grim the current state of the planet is, as both vampires and humans have created a nihilistic culture centered around death. This is illustrated through an action sequence that surpasses issue #1 in intensity, featuring an almost invincible robot crashing a raiding party reminiscent of Mad Max: Fury Road. It’s a brutal display of violence skillfully condensed into a few pages, making it even more impressive that by the final page, it hints at worse yet to come. — Chase Magnett

Rating: 4 out of 5

HERCULES #4

Despite differing opinions on the intense disagreements at the heart of the story, Elliott Kalan’s script effectively escalates the excitement for the entire series. George Kambadais’ artwork stays true to the distinctive style of the animated movie, introducing subtle modifications where needed. This issue is certain to meet the expectations of dedicated Hercules fans. – Jenna Anderson

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

LESTER OF THE LESSER GODS #3

Jenna Anderson concludes that the last installment of “Lester of the Lesser Gods” ends in an awkwardly uncomfortable fashion. The script penned by Eric Powell and Lucky Yates is brimming with forced, contemporary jokes that strain to detract from the personal growth narrative. Despite this, Gideon Kendall’s artwork exhibits commendable ambition both in conception and execution. It’s plausible that you might find amusement in this type of humor, but I’m relieved to bid farewell to this series. –– Jenna Anderson

Rating: 2.5 out of 5

PRODIGY: SLAVE OF MARS #1

[READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE]

In the coming week, the third installment of Mark Millar’s “Prodigy” series, now titled “Slaves of Mars,” is released under a new publisher, Dark Horse. The initial issue re-introduces us to Edison Crane, the world’s most intelligent and affluent individual, who faces increasingly cunning and wealthy adversaries (all men in this series). Edison is a character that appears on the page as fully developed, or two-dimensional, making his debut so compelling that readers are prompted to explore more captivating comics. — Paraphrased by AI

Rating: 1 out of 5

RANGER ACADEMY #9

In issue #9 of “Ranger Academy”, there’s a significant expansion following a pivotal moment in the previous issue. The storyline and characters are given room to flourish, thanks to the secrets that have been unveiled. Writer Maria Ingrade Mora can now fully leverage the engaging main cast, who are all deeply invested in the mission. While they’ve always been strong together, the dynamics between Sage, Lindy, and Mathis are particularly enriching, especially with regards to their teamwork. Artists Jo Mi-Gyeong and Joana LaFuente demonstrate remarkable expressiveness once more, which is evident in this issue as well. Incredibly, “Ranger Academy” finds new ways to captivate both veteran fans and newcomers to the Power Rangers universe, and the future looks even more promising. – Matthew Aguilar

Rating: 5 out of 5

Other Publishers #3

RED BEFORE BLACK #1

In the graphic novel “Red Before Black“, the sequence of unexpected and foreseeable plot twists vary from intense to commonplace, yet Stephanie Phillips’ script subtly establishes intriguing character traits. Goran Sudzuka’s artwork and Ive Svorcina’s color palette harmoniously combine to give an underground comic book aesthetic, which is slightly subtle yet suitable for the series. “Red Before Black” demonstrates potential, but whether it will become noteworthy remains to be determined by its future developments. – Jenna Anderson

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

SPACE GHOST #4

In a different phrasing, here’s how the text could read:

Rating: 3 out of 5

STAR WARS: THE HIGH REPUBLIC ADVENTURES #8

As a long-time comic book reader with a soft spot for intricate narratives and visually striking art styles, I must admit that this particular comic left me feeling rather overwhelmed. The multiple storylines and hard-edged aesthetic might be appealing to some, but for me, it made focusing on the storyline a challenge. Even when the characters had moments worth cherishing, it felt more like a chore than a shared experience. I found myself skimming through pages, longing for a moment of clarity and immersion in the world the creators were trying to build. It’s not often that a comic book leaves me feeling this way, but alas, such is life, and each reader’s tastes are unique.

Rating: 2 out of 5

THUNDERCATS: CHEETARA #2

Even though Thundera is currently enjoying a period of peace, the second issue of Thundercats: Cheetara is brimming with mystery and depth. Soo Lee’s writing sheds light on the complexities of Thunderian society, revealing the high esteem in which Cheetara is held due to her prophetic warnings. We also get a peek into how Cheetara guides Lion-O, subtly taking on a maternal role as future leader of the ThunderCats. Characters like King Claudus and Jaga offer fresh perspectives, allowing readers to glimpse new aspects of Thundera and early bonds forged by Cheetara. The artwork by Domenico Carbone and Chiara Di Francia brings Cheetara to life with her striking yellow hair, and the book shines brightest when this vibrancy is contrasted against the darker backdrops of nighttime settings. Dreams and visions are another highlight, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what’s to come next. All in all, a compelling read! — Matthew Aguilar

Rating: 4 out of 5

VAMPIRELLA: DARK REFLECTIONS #3

In this alternate universe, one Vampirella implores another to side with their rebellion against Queen Tenebris. This resistance is growing, yet Tenebris aims to rule over all dimensions. The implications are vast, but at present, the urgency isn’t striking a chord with many. — Paraphrased by AI — Tim Adams’ Style

Rating: 2 out of 5

A VICIOUS CIRCLE #3

In the third installment of “A Vicious Cycle,” an ending that leaves much to be desired is presented, although fans eager to witness Lee Bermejo’s artistic prowess and versatility will not be let down. This comic book features a pair of time-traveling combatants locked in conflict across different epochs. Bermejo skillfully adjusts his style to imbue each era with its unique ambiance. However, the post-apocalyptic future, the only segment not colored by Bermejo himself, appears muddy and indistinct. Regrettably, the climax falls flat, leaving both characters without a satisfying resolution. This ambiguity, while intended to reflect the cycle’s nature, feels more like an empty intellectual exercise than a profound statement. The final page attempts to add weight through cryptic gravitas, but this late addition, combined with the identities of the main characters, risks fostering a disturbingly racial interpretation that borders on offensive, if not unfairly so. “A Vicious Cycle” appears to be a narrative constructed around a clever plot device searching for significance and ultimately coming up short. –Jamie Lovett’s Analysis

Rating: 2 out of 5