Reviews of Ghost Rider #0.1, Journey Into Mystery #624 and more!

Holy hell is it a big week.  Only bought a couple of books at the comic shop but got a ton in the mail. No DC books this week.  I wanted to get Morning Glories #10, but the comic shop had to order it specially since Image books don't sell.  The review will come next week.  With that said, lets get to it!

Marvel Comics

Amazing Spider-Man #661:  Dan Slott is taking a couple of issues off and ASM is having a semi-crossover with Avengers Academy.  Sadly the book isn't as good as it could have been.

While helping out the FF, Spidey and the team come across Giant Man, who asks Spider-man to be a substitute teacher.  Spidey is quickly proven to be an old school person, as the students think up scenarios to destroy whatever he says.  What does Spider-Man do then?  Go on patrol.  The kids prove to be confident until they come upon Psycho Man. 

On paper this issue should work.  One of the best things that came out of the JMS run was turning Peter into a high school science teacher.  Sadly the issue is bogged down in heavy exposition.  Christos Gage (the regular writer for Avengers Academy) writes this issue, and treats the viewer like they have never heard of the Avengers Academy before.  If this was last year and Academy was a young series, I wouldn't fault Gage for doing this.  But the series is going strong and just had #14 released recently.  The average reader knows about the Academy enough that this exposition could have been avoided.  The set up is really good though.  I'm interested enough in the kids that I have checked out a few issues of the series.  Psycho Man is an odd choice for a villain though.

Reilly Brown handles the pencils on this issue, and does a decent job overall.  Some of the faces look a little off.  The teen girls seem a tad beefcake to me.  I'm in the boat that teenage superheroes shouldn't be hyper sexualized.  The recent Spider-Girl series has done a good job of this.

Amazing Spider-Man #661 gets 3/5.

Marvel Comics

Amazing Spider-Man #662:  After the sub par #661, I was hoping this issue would find it's footing.  Sadly it's of the same quality.

Psycho Man is toying with everyones feelings, making the Avengers Academy turn on each other.  Spider-Man finds a way to break it and has to talk them out of the trance.  Reptil is the only one who listens to Spider-Man and helps him stop the rest.  After stopping Psycho Man, the group realize they learned a lot from Spider-Man. Although Spidey doesn't think he should be teaching anymore, and neither do the students.

Much like #661, the book never finds a consistent stride.  All the dialogue feels hokey and forced.  The concept is really good and I would like to see the two books interact again some time.  I'm guessing this was a filler issue(s) to give Slott some time off from the fast shipping rate.  If that is the case, it's a decent story for what it is.  

Reilly Brown does a better job this issue than #661.  While there is still a problem with faces, his work is better.  The action scenes flow better and the transition from Reptil to raptor look really good.  The beefacake issue from #661 is gone, as the girl are a little more proportioned.

Amazing Spider-man #662 gets 3/5

Marvel Comics

Amazing Spider-Man #663:  Now this is more like it.  With Dan Slott back to writing ASM, the book is back to the brilliance we know and love.

Wraith is taking down a lot of Mr. Negative's men.  Eventually Anti-Venom bumps into the new Wraith and her (that's right, her) secret identity.  Peter is finding that being Spider-Man is taking up a lot of his time, but it's making his job at Horizon's profitable.  Aunt May has a run in with Mr. Li (Mr. Negative's alter ego) and remembers what happened to her during the Mysterio arc of The Gauntlet.  Peter comes to the rescue, but is interrupted by Anti-Vemon attacking Mr. Negative.  Spider-Man doesn't know that Anti-Venom, actually Eddie Brock, is a good guy, so the two start fighting.  Spider-Man loses his abilities, as being in the vicinity of Brock weakens his powers.

The story is top notch.  It makes a lot of call backs without feeling bogged down or explaining everything to the reader.  While the power angle was used back in the New Ways to Die arc, it has a punch here that makes me excited for the next issue.  The back up tale leading up to Spider-Island makes me even more excited for the upcoming Spider event.

Giuseppe Camuncoli does a great job on pencils.  His faces are hyper expressive and realistic.  His Anti-Venom is amazing.  Look at Brock changing into the white monster and it just pops off of the page.  I wouldn't mind Camuncoli staying around.

Amazing Spider-Man #663 gets 5/5

Marvel Comics

Avengers #13:  Brian Michael Bendis has had a slightly sub par run of late with the Avengers.  The second arc of the series was all smash no content.  The Fear Itself tie in though seems to be putting the book on track.  

This book takes place after Fear Itself, with most of the Avengers talking about what happened during the event.  It starts with a party at Asgard and Ms. Marvel and Spider-Woman realize they haven't been on a date in a while.  Spider-Woman seems to be the object of interest for Hawkeye, which Ms. Marvel doesn't support at all.  Most of the Avengers talk about how they don't trust the Red Hulk, and how he played a big role in the event.

I have hated the oral history of the Avengers that has been in the back of the Avengers book for the past year.  They aren't interesting and just upped the price.  This way though seems natural and fluid.  There is a good amount of exposition in this issue, but it doesn't feel like it.  And while the Spider-Woman and Hawkeye love angle is completely out of left field, I'll allow it to play out and see what happens.

Chris Bachalo takes over for pencils for this issue, give John Romita Jr. a rest.  Bachalo does a great job, although I wish he had more room during the conversations.  Sometimes it was a little hard to figure out who people were.

Avengers #13 gets 5/5

Marvel Comics

Deadpool #37:  With the Deadpool hating done, it's time for the book to shine.  While #37 is good, it's not as good as past reflective Deadpool issues.

Deadpool realizes he wants to die.  As he is the Regeneratin' Degenerate, he doesn't die very easily.  Or at all.  He provokes Bruce Banner into turning into the Hulk to kill him.  This is seen as a game to Wade, who keeps nuking the Hulk to provoke him.  The Hulk continually takes the high road and walks away. Until Deadpool finally provokes him to far and he attacks.

There have been a few reflective issues during Daniel Way's run on Deadpool.  They have usually been the better issues.  This issue doesn't take advantage of the somber mood and goes more for laughs.  While this is a book based on humor, some reflective moments should be more serious.  Wade has been shown to grow a lot in Uncanny X-Force, so why not bring that tone over to his main book?  Deadpool isn't going to break down and cry, but some type of issue where he realizes something about himself would be nice.  Maybe we will get that with #38.  Way does make the issue enjoyable though, don't think it's all bad.

Common Deadpool artist Bong Dazo takes the pencil reigns in this issue.  His art is very cartoony, but maybe to cartoony for this issue.  Like I said, it seems like the story is suppose to be a little more serious, and Dazo's art is anything but.  I loved his art on Deadpool: Merc with a Mouth.  But here it seems out of place.

Deadpool #37 gets 3.5/5

Marvel Comics

FF #4:  FF has been a big hit for Marvel.  While #4 keeps up that trend, it's slightly sub par compared to the first three issues.

Reed Richards is talking to his greatest enemies to figure out how to stop all the Reed Richards from other universes.  None can seem to think of a way to stop them, as they don't care for their families like the Reed of 616.  Mole Man has also started some fighting up on Old Atlantis, which Sue, Spidey, and Alex Power go to take care of.  Sue is surprised to see another Reed.

The story is typical Jonathan Hickman.  And by that I mean great.  But for some reason the story didn't seem to be as great as the past three issues.  I'm having a hard time putting my finger on the issue.  I found the ending a little odd as how could Sue not know about the other Reeds.  I'm excited to see what the group of villains come up with as a way to destroy the Reed's, as it will no doubt make Reed rethink himself.  The slow burning of the four cities fighting is starting to make it's way to the front burner, which will pay off well for long time readers.

Barry Kitson fills in on art.  His characters look great, with each being very expressive and realistic.  There is one complaint on art though, as the inking wildly changes in some scenes.  And I'm not talking scene to scene.  I'm talking page to page.  We are still in the same room and the inking style wildly changes.  It's not necessarily bad, but it pulled me out of the story a little bit.

FF #4 gets 4/5

Marvel Comics

Ghost Rider #0.1:  I'm not a real fan of Ghost Rider.  I haven't read a lot of his back issues, but I have read enough to get a feel for the character.  With Ghost Rider #0.1, I am fully hooked and can't wait to see what happens next.

Johnny Blaze is talking to a bartender about why he hates his life.  He saves a beautiful girl and she turns out to be a vampire.  A strange man, named Adam, offers him a way out.  Blaze rejects his offer and tries to help out a woman being bother by her angry ex husband.  He is beaten to a pulp, as he doesn't understand the power of the Ghost Rider.  The woman heals him, and Blaze expects her to want something from him.  He doesn't believe her when she says no and storms off.  Johnny Blaze takes Adam's deal, and the Ghost Rider isn't attached to Johnny Blaze anymore....

Rob Williams deserves some type of award for the writing.  He paints Johnny Blaze as a witty smart ass who is somehow relatable.  That is an achievement in it's own right.  Not only that, Blaze is sympathetic.  It's kind of sad to see him go, although the teaser at the end seems to hint he will be be playing some sort of role in the series.  Williams opens up enough threads to keep the new series afloat for a while if written well.

Matthew Clark gives the issue a grind house feel.  This is an angle that will only help the series as it moves forward.  The Ghost Rider looks menacing and awesome at the same time.  The scene with Blaze driving through hell looks amazing and I can only imagine the fun Clark had penciling those pages.

Ghost Rider #0.1 gets 5/5

Marvel Comics

Invincible Iron Man #504:  The previous issue put some doubts in my mind that a Fear Itself tie in was going to spell the doom of awesomeness Matt Fraction has been planning.  #504 gets rid of all those fears.

Tony heads to Paris to deal with the Grey Gargoyle, one of the Serpent's Worthy.  He has turned the entire city to stone.  Tony has a very hard time taking this in stride, and Grey Gargoyle almost kills Tony.  While this is going on Pepper is off in the Rescue gear to hire a new chief of security for Stark Resilient.  Tony wakes back up form his savage beating to see a ghastly sight.  

Fractions writes his usual smart ass Tony, but it comes across as being funny because he is scared.  It's very subtle, but works very well.  It's not often we see Tony scared shitless and not being able to handle the situation.  The last page reveal will no doubt haunt Tony for issues to come.  The Tony-Pepper plot line is starting to heat up, and by heating up I mean they aren't happy with each other.  It's classic soap opera storyline, but Fractions adds Tony flair to it.  

Salvador Larroca does his usual work.  The fights look really good but the talking head panels are something to be desired.

Invincible Iron Man 3504 gets 4/5.

Marvel Comics

Journey Into Mystery #624:  It's simply stunning what Kieron Gillen is doing with this book.  The Thor part of the Marvel universe is no doubt the strongest.

Volstagg helps Loki get out of trouble (see Fear Itself #3 to see how Loki got in trouble with Odin).  Loki heads to Hell and Hel to trick Mephisto and Hela to fight so that they won't side with the Serpent.  Loki find help in the recently fallen Tyr.  Using his silver tongue, the young Loki gets his way.

Journey Into Mystery is the real companion piece to Fear Itself.  It's very tied into the overall plot without being dragged down by the big event.  This is mostly due to Gillen's writing abilities.  Most of the story is based of hiss time on Thor, and it's a great pay off from long time readers.  Young Loki is a very interesting character.  It's obvious he wants to help, but he is going through bad ways to get it.  No doubt this is a long term plan by Dead Loki, but damn if I'm not excited to see this all play out.

Douglas Braithwaite's pencils look great for this type of book.  I wasn't a fan when he was on Wolverine: Origins, but his pencils have found a home here.  The monsters have the grandiose they should in this type of book.  

Journey Into Mystery #624 gets 5/5

Marvel Comics

The Mighty Thor #2:  Fraction seems to be the guy to go to when starting a new volume of a book after a movie is released.  

Thor and Sif are training the Brigade of the Realms.  A giant rock creature is their target.  While Loki is one of the few brave enough to fight, they need to be saved by Sif.  The Silver Surfer is slowly making his way towards Asgard.  Odin puts the World Seed into a new Destroyer, and Odin starts what seems to be some sort of conspiracy.  The Surfer threatens Asgard and Thor teaches him not to do that again.  Fight time.

Fraction's trademark dialogue is on display here, and it's a blast to read.  Thor doesn't say to much in the opening scene, but it's hilarious.  Fractions has said he will work in JMS' Odinsleep thing soon, so the conspiracy no doubt has something to do with that.  Sif is a character that hasn't been used much recently, and I like what Fraction is doing with her.  She is coming to the front of the story, although this might be due to her role in movie.  

Olivier Coipel is a force to behold.  The first few pages are just beautiful and every comic book artist should look at them.  The page layouts looks chaotic, but once reading, it flows like a dream.  The giant rock monster thing is amazingly detailed.

The Mighty Thor #2 gets 5/5

Marvel Comics

Venom #3:  I have always been a Venom fan, and my fandom has only increased because of this book.

Flash Thompson is still working his way through the Savage Land after his run in with Kraven the Hunter.  The symbiote is taking over and making the mission that much harder to control.  Betty is kidnapped by Jack O' Lantern.  Flash takes a helicopter back to NYC, loaded with the vibranum that he was suppose to take for the military.  Spider-Man bumps into Venom and starts to lay into him, when the symbiote takes full control of Flash.

I'm surprised that Spider-Man is making an appearance so soon in this book.  But hey, it doesn't feel forced so who am I to complain.  Rick Remender writes Flash as a hero in a villain suit, and it's great to read Flash try to rationalize everything.  It's something that was never done enough with Spider-Man and the symbiote. It's almost as if Flash wants to redeem the symbiote.  It's sad to see the symbiote take completely over, and this is all due to Remender.  He gives the reader hope that Flash will finally be the person to control the symbiote, then pulls the rug out from under us.  Kudos to him.

It stinks that Tony Moore couldn't pencil this issue.  While Tom Fowler does a good job, his art does bring down the review by a point.  His talking head panels and action panels look great, but the second the symbiote starts to take over Flash, everything is out the window.  The jawline on Venom is wacky as all hell and doesn't even look attached to Venom at some points.

Venom #3 gets 4/5.

Marvel Comics

Wolverine #10:  Here we go, it's another Wolverine revenge arc. Oh wait, Jason Aaron is writing it, so it will be awesome.  For the most part

Wolverine is making his way to the Red Right Hand.  He is stopped by a villain named Cannonfoot.  Most of the issue focuses on the leader of the Red Right Hand and how he came to hate Wolverine so much.  It had to do with the Leader's (the reader isn't told a name) father being killed by Wolverine.  After this, he continually tried to kill the Canuckle head.  He soon realizes he isn't the only person that has a grudge against our favorite Canadian.  Wolverine makes quick work of Cannonfoot, and then another villain appears.

Jason Aaron gives us some much needed backstory for the Right Red Hand.  Sadly the story doesn't seem any different than anyone else that Wolverine has wronged in his long history.  The only real difference is that the guy is being proactive and bringing everyone together into one place.  This doesn't completely bog down the story, but it doesn't help.  While Cannonfoot is a one note villain, it's funny to watch Wolverine get the crap kicked out of him them kill the guy.

Renato Guedes is back on pencils.  He seems more at home here than he did Wolverine Goes to Hell.  The fight between Wolverine and Cannonfoot looks great.  I wish more of the issue had been devoted to that.  

Wolverine #10 gets 3.5/5

Reviews for Fear Itself #3, Flashpoint #2, and more!

Hello all.  I'm back, and hopefully going to be regular with my reviews.  I loved this week, as it perfectly showed what comic books can do.  You have the big events, and the slow burn books that you learn to love over multiple readings.  With that said, lets start!

Marvel Comics

Fear Itself #3:  While the tagline "The Hammer that Fell on Yancy St." wasn't such the coded message Marvel wanted, #3 still holds up to the previous two.

Washington DC is under attack, and Bucky, Black Widow, and the Falcon are taking charge against Sin in her worthy form.  Loki uses his trickery to get Thor out of prison.  Odin is not pleased by this and sends Thor back to Earth.  The Avengers are on the scene to held Red She Hulk fight the Hulk.  The Thing is chosen as one of the worthy and leaves wreckage around Yancy St.  Commander Rogers decides he can't sit out and anymore and joins the fray.  But all is not well in the battle between Bucky and Sin......

While some might complain that this issue feels more like set up than actual plot development, there is some truth to that.  Matt Fraction has been setting up a lot of threads to pay off later.  But remember, there are still four issues left.  That's a lot of event to go through.  I do wish the destruction around Earth could have been shown more, but I'll just read those issues if I want that story.  Event comics can't cover 100% of what is going on.  

Stuart Immonen pencils his usual beautiful issue.  The fight scene between Sin and Bucky looks stunning.  I couldn't stop looking at those pages.  The same goes for the double page spread with the Thing brining destruction down on Yancy St.  Just stunning work.

Overall, Fear Itself gets 5/5.

DC Comics

Flashpoint #2:  This is much better.  While the first issue solidified the world, it focused to much on Batman.  Thankfully Barry is back, and this helps the issue.

Barry has finally convinced Batman to listen to him, and he goes on to describe how the world isn't the way it is suppose to be and he needs to fix it.  But who has done it.  A quick touch of his Flash ring reveals the culprit to be Professor Zoom.  The Amazonians, led by Wonder Woman, discover they have been infiltrated.  Barry looks to recreate the accident that turned him into the Flash.

Most of the issue is exposition, which can be a little much.  A good chunk of Geoff John's dialogue is cemented around making us believe that this is permanent and that this is the real DCU.  It's not necessarily bad, but the dialogue feels so shoveled in and not part of the story.  Other than that, John's writes a good issue and adds some bad assness to Wonder Woman in the process.

Andy Kubert steals the show though.  Everything is so detailed, it's a sight to be hold.  Then I looked at the sketchbook and realized he had been working on this for over a year.  Well I HOPE everything would be very detailed if an artist had a year to work on it.  None the less, his work is the real start of this mini series.

Flashpoint #2 gets 4/5.

Marvel Comics

Herc #4:  This issue perfectly shows how a book can benefit from an event tie in.  Herc #4 is the strongest issue to date.

Hell is breaking lose in Brooklyn thanks to Kyknos and Hecate.  The people of Brooklyn aren't really happy that Herc did the heroic thing and saved the villains from being killed.  Herc gets a sidekick in the form of Friffin, who is acting like a trained dog.  Herc is learning the hard way that he isn't as powerful as he use to be, getting shot up and stabbed.  He passes out, and wakes up to Brooklyn in dire need of a hero.

#4 is a great issue for many reasons.  Namely it's due to Pak and Van Lente finding a great balance of action and comedy.  There are a couple of plot points that seem a little odd.  But these can be left up to interpretation.  Having Griffin act like a dog and be Hercules' sidekick is fun, and it adds to the humor.  

Neil Edwards does a good job as usual.  Nothing really to say that I haven't said in past months.  His action is good with the occasional body looking odd.

Herc #4 gets 4/5

Marvel Comics

Moon Knight #2:  Brian Michael Bendis originally didn't want to write Moon Knight.  After the first two issues of this series, I'm so happy Joe Quesada pushed him to write this book.

After talking to some contacts, Moon Knight found a lead on the mysterious kingpin of LA.  It leads him to a strip club.  After discussing with his personalities about who should take point, Spider-Man wins out.  The Spidey personality does a good job, but Wolverine takes over.  Things don't end well, and Moon Knight is saved by Echo, who was undercover as a stripper.

The writing is pitch perfect.  Bendis writes Moon Knight as Spider-Man in a humorous, but logical way. Spidey is portrayed as over the top, Wolverine is overly masculine, and Cap is noble till the end.  The personalities arguing could get gimmicky fast, but for now it's a blast to read.  Bendis seems to be going for a Daredevil feel, and it's really working.  

I'm liking Alex Maleev's new penciling style.  There are a few times in this issue though that looked rushed and a little to scratchy for their own good.  Tame the pencils a little bit and everything will be great.

Bottom line, Moon Knight looks to be staying around for a while and this is for the best.

Moon Knight #2 gets 4/5.

Marvel Comics

The New Avengers #12:  The complaint about a lack of focus can be sent out the window with this issue.  Bendis finds a real reason for this book to be around, and it's great.

Mockingbird is in the hospital as Hawkeye takes her side.  Wolverine and Luke do some interrogating to a H.A.M.M.E.R. agent.  Most of the issue revolves around the 1950's Avengers who are fighting the third Red Skull and his copy of Steve Rogers.  A massive battle ensues, and it ends with the Red Skull being killed.  There might also be some connection to Fear Itself as well.....

The conclusion leaves a lot of open threads.  I'm very interested to see where Bendis could take this new angle.  The 1950's Avengers ends a little anticlimatic, but like I said, it might be tying into Fear Itself, but that is just me speculating.  I'd like to see more of this team of Avengers though.

Mike Deodato doesn't have much to pencil this month, but it looks good as usual.  Howard Chaykin's pencils look good, but there are a couple of panels that could have used a little more detail.  Some of the facial expressions look a tad odd to me as well.

The New Avengers #12 gets 4/5.

Marvel Comics

S.H.I.E.L.D. Vol. 2 #1:  One of the best books Marvel put out last year is back, and finally some answers have been brought up.

As with past reviews about S.H.I.E.L.D. books, I won't give a synopsis.  Much like LOST, if you haven't been keeping up or rereading, the plot can get a little convoluted.  Thankfully #1 gives a couple of answers.  Not to many questions are brought up in this issue thankfully, as the series was starting to suffer from a lack of understanding.  Yeah, some things can be left up to the reader to interpret on their own, there needs to be some solidified things for the reader to find their footing.  The revelations are very interesting and makes me that much more excited for the next issue.  Jonathan Hickman is writing one hell of a book here.

Dustin Weaver continues to draw the hell out of this book.  Everything has the wonder and grandeur that a book like this needs.  

S.H.I.E.L.D. Vol. 2 #1 gets 5/5

X-Men: First Class review

20th Century Fox

It's been a while since we had a good X-Men movie.  Third of the main series was eh, and the only good thing about X-Men Origins: Wolverine was Hugh Jackman.  Thankfully, First Class brings the series back to it's former glory and makes our favorite mutants one of Marvel's best movies.  If you are reading this before seeing the movie, just a heads up.  Mild spoilers, and there isn't an after credits scene.

The world doesn't know that mutants exist.  They hide their powers.  Then Sebastian Shaw (Kevin Bacon) decides to start World War III by means of the Cuban Missile Crisis.  Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) and Raven (Jennifer Lawrence) decide to help the government, after being reading the mind of Moira McTaggert (Rose Bryne).  This leads Charles to meet Eric Lehnsherr (Michael Fassbender), and host of other mutants.  The informal X-Men find out more about Shaw's plan from the kidnapped Emma Frost (January Jones).

The script is top notch, feeling more like an spy movie that just happens to have the X-Men in it.  The threat around the Cuban Missile Crisis is established early on, and the plot doesn't waste any time by bringing us back to the time period.  The sets and dialogue keep us in the era without every seeming hokey or gimmicky.  Boiled down, the movie is about a pair of friends and their friendship that is tragically ended.  Eric's and Charles's arc is well known by now, but the script keeps the audience hoping that Eric will take a different turn, which makes the finale all that more tragic.  The plethora of mutants is handled much better than the last couple of X-Men movies.  If a mutant is shown, he/she has a purpose in the plot.  There are many mutants hinted or they have cameos, and it's a blast to see them.  The continuity of the original films is all but thrown out the window, and this is probably for the best.  Hopefully sequels will continue to write their own continuity.  And those complaining about the failed X-Men Origins: Magneto film, don't worry, this film will make up for it.

The acting equals the level of the script.  McAvoy and Fassbender hold the film on their own, having amazing chemistry.  While I loved Ian McKellen in the original movies as Magneto, Fassbender looks to be the new level for how to play the villain.  He keeps Magneto relatable and never seeming as a psycho, which sometimes happened in the originals.  Jennifer Lawrence makes Mystique a great character, something Rebecca Romijn wasn't really allowed to do in the originals.  The rest of the mutants do great with the time that they are given, even though they are mostly there for comic relief.

There are a couple of things that could have been fixed though.  January Jones isn't given much to do as Emma Frost, except stand there and not wear a lot of clothes.  She is a talented actress and hopefully she gets more time in the sequel.  The same could be said about the other mutants that make up the team, but we will probably see more of them in sequels.  There is also a death early on, which seems weird.  His absence is quickly swept away, so why bring him into the film at all?

X-Men: First Class is easily the best X movie, and hopefully Fox will look to it as a template for future X movies.  And Fox?  MAKE THE DEADPOOL MOVIE ALREADY

X-Men: First Class gets 4.5/5

Reviews for Alpha Flight #0.1, Hawkeye: Blind Spot #4, Herc #3 and more!

Hello all.  Sorry for not posting reviews last week.  Was hectic, graduating college 'n such.  It was a decent week overall, so lets get started.

Marvel Comics

Alpha Flight #0.1:  I have always been a fan of teams and heroes outside the USA.  It's fun to see the affect of heroes on another country.  I was one of the fans of Captain Britain and MI13.  With Alpha Flight back from the dead, it's time for a new mini/ongoing.

Canada is having a new election, and many in the Great White North want to take the government back. Alpha Flight (sans North Star) is on the scene, helping stop problems around the country.  Rolling blackouts are sweeping the country, conveniently during a rally of the Unity Party.  Alpha Flight stops the problem, all the while with the future not looking good for Canada.'

Alpha Flight #0.1 does what a few of the .1 issues had a problem with, is bringing in new readers into a book that not a lot of people know about.  The book properly establishes all the characters and gives us their personalities and motives.  We see the problem that is facing Canada and what will be a problem in the new mini-series. It's also done with humor and drama, making this new volume of Alpha Flight seem very enticing.

Ben Oliver handles the art, and it looks really good.  The action is fluid and the panel transition is very smooth.  There is some questionable body designs, but it's nothing that doesn't happen in every comic book.  

Alpha Flight #0.1 gets 5/5

Marvel Comics

Amazing Spider-Man #660:  The last issue finally showed us the Sinister Six and what they are capable of.  They seem like a formidable team this time around.  But it's time for the FF to kick some butt.

The Sinister Six and FF throw down for much of this issue.  The portal that Doc Ock built messes with the original Fantastic Fours powers, but thankfully Spidey fixes the problem.  Peter also makes amends with Carlie.

Yep, that's a very short summary.  This is really because not much happens.  I'm a fan of Dan Slott and his Spider-Man run, finding almost every issue perfect.  But this issue leaves something to be desired.  The dialogue is good, but the plot spins its wheels.  This is probably because of Spider-Island coming up.

The art is also eh as well.  Mike McKone pencils most of the issue.  While usually good, his pencils look a tad rushed, and it's hard to tell which FF kid is which at some points.  Caselli pencils the Peter-Carlie scene, and he does his usual brilliance.

Amazing Spider-Man #660 gets 3/5

DC Comics

Batman #710:  While I love what is going on in Batman Inc, Tony Daniel's Batman has a special place in my pull list.  It's not as heavy and usually full of fun Batman stories.  This issue is a great example of that.

Two-Face has lost his coin and is going on a slight killing spree looking for it.  Falcone has the coin and is looking to take down Two-Face in the process.  Harvey's wife, previously thought dead, is back as well.  Dick and Catwoman try to convince Cat Girl to go to boarding school so that she can get out of the super thief business. Batman is also facing a public relations problem with the new Governor.

#710 is a fun issue that seems classic Batman to me.  It's fun to see Two-Face get out of his ways.  I'm not entirely sure he would go on a killing spree, but it's fun to read.  The Cat Girl angle is also fun to read with Dick seeming more like Bruce all the time.  It's fun to see the character develop.

Steve Scott fills in this month on art and does a good job overall.  There are a couple of problems with the characters seeming incredibly stiff.  Dick also looks inhumanly muscular in the double page spread.

Batman #710 gets 4/5

Marvel Comics

Deadpool MAX #8:  It's very sad to see this book ending in a few months.  And even though this book says Deadpool, he is absent this month in favor of focusing on Bob.

Bob gives us his long and troubled history as an agent and following love.  Not going to spoil you all, but it's something to read.  It's very sad but you find yourself laughing hysterically at what happens to him.  It reads like classic Bob while taking a whole new angle on the character.  While the plot isn't as outlandish as past issues, this works for the best.

The art as usual is insane.  But like the plot, the art tones it down a little this month.  There isn't as much visually going on, focusing more on characters.

Deadpool Max is one of the few books that needs to be read.  While mature readers only, it's one of the best books Marvel puts out.

Deadpool MAX #8 gets 5/5.

Marvel Comics

Hawkeye: Blind Spot #4:  Faithful readers know how much I have loved Jim McCann's run with Hawkeye.  It's sad to see the ongoing end WAY to soon, and this mini-series is the cherry on top.  And thankfully the fourth issue keeps with the high standards of the past three issues.

Hawkeye can't see and has to fight Trickshot and Baron Zemo.  Taking a note from the Man Without Fear, he tries to remember where everyone is, with mostly success (and a couple of failures).  The fight continues, with the Avengers eventually coming to save the day.  Hawkeye's tumor is fixed though....with a donation from his brother.

It's a nice ending, and leaves Hawkeye in a better place than he started in the Heroic Age.  Jim McCan started with Hawkeye the confident idiot he can be sometimes, and made him more humble.  Hopefully something will come up very soon for McCann to write the character.

Paco Diaz has done an amazing job over the mini-series, and this issue continues it.  The faces are hyper expressive and the panels flow great.  Like McCann, I hope to see more of Diaz in the future.

Hawkeye: Blind Spot #4 gets 5/5

Marvel Comics

Herc #3: When a young title gets pulled into a company wide crossover event, even one with an established character, can be the doom of the series.  Surprisingly, Herc #3 isn't example of this.

Brooklyn is happy to have a new hero, but the recent break at the Raft (seen in Fear Itself #2) has sent a few villains towards the borough.  Herc makes quick work of them, until Ares son makes a guest appearance. And Hercules does the truly heroic thing and save the villains from being killed at the hands of the Warhawks.  As you might guess, this doesn't sit well with the citizens.

Herc #3 is a very strong issue.  It is filled with a lot more humor than the past two issues and will show people how this books is a lot like the old book.  Pak and Van Lente making this a more serious book, but that isn't a bad thing.  Hercules can't be funny all the time and expect to be taken as a serious super hero.  The girlfriend angle is a good choice as well.  While I do miss Amadeus Cho, the new girl is an ok substitute.  I expect we will see more of her after Fear Itself makes it way through the Marvel Universe.

Neil Edwards continues to improve his pencils on the book.  The body types are becoming more consistent and I like Herc's new outfit.  I'll miss his old over the top costume, but this one fits in more with the super heroes of New York.

Herc #3 gets 5/5

Marvel Comics

Heroes for Hire #7:  Heroes for Hire has been one of the books on the bubble for my pull list.  It has worked it's way off the endangered list by giving us two strong back to back issues.

Spider-Man continues to follow the truck that has been dealing drugs.  Paladin has a broken rib and has to take a cab, and Misty Knight feels useless being Control.  Spider-Man gets caught up in a massive fight, while Paladin gets belittled.  The final reveal has an old Spider-Man villain wanting revenge.

This issue is just hilarious.  DnA know how to write Spider-Man in a phenomenal way that rivals Dan Slott.  The Paladin cab ride thing was also a nice touch, and had me laughing out loud.  The numerous call backs to the first few issues was nice and shows how the book is back to the slow burn plot that made it a quick critical hit.  The plot is over the top, and the heroes seem to realize this, which adds to the humor.

What keeps #7 from getting a full 5 is the art.  The books needs Walker on pencils every issue.  Can this book please go back to shipping once a month so that Walker can do the book?  Seeley does a good job, and his art looks a lot like Walker's, but it doesn't have the same feel.  

Heroes for Hire #7 gets 4/5

Marvel Comics

Namor: The First Mutant Annual #1:  The first two issue of Escape from the Negative Zone were a blast to read.  Sadly this issue doesn't measure up to the first two, it's still fun to read.

Namor is going nuts since he hasn't seen water in quite some time.  He is destroying everything in sight, and Cyclops and Commander Rogers can't control him.  Namor fights Blastaar.  Dr. Nemesis finds a way to get out of the Negative Zone, but it takes Hope mimicking some of Namor's powers to lure him out of the Negative Zone.

James Asmus has done a great job during these annuals of writing funny, compelling stories.  But this issue lacks the actual Namor focus.  He is just a background player and a plot point.  I wouldn't have minded as much if this was a mini-series, but it's Namor's annual.  But the story ends on a fun note and leaves plenty of story for someone else to tell if they so desire.

Max Fiumara does a slightly sub-standard job on pencils.  Some of the heads look to egg shaped and it detracts from the story.  The body sizes on characters shifts wildly.  This doesn't happen the whole time, but there are a few times where the read can't help but notice and it pulls you out of reading the book.

Namor: The First Mutant Annual #1 gets 3.5/5

Marvel Comics

Ultimate Comics Avengers vs New Ultimates #4:  Now that the book has finally been pulled into Death of Spider-Man, the story can get back to being.........well sadly average.

Spider-Man is shot and is still acting like a hero.  War Machine destroys the bridge and the chases begin again.  Nick Fury is captured as Spider-Man slinks away.  Most of the Ultimates have a discussion about what they think should happen to Danvers and Fury.  We learn who the person who has been pulling strings has been, and it's quite a shocker.  

I really wanted to like this issue, but I couldn't.  He has some great ideas and the big reveal near the end makes a lot of sense.  But the execution isn't smooth.  The Punisher has a very out of character burst.  Most of the issue is a talking head issue, and is interesting to read, but spins it's wheels till the end.  After reading this issue, the person who is running everything makes a lot of sense.  I reread some back issues of this book and you can see the seeds being sowed.  

One thing that isn't bad is the art.  Yu and Segovia are doing a great job.  The action looks chaotic as it should.  The talking head scenes look interesting and improve on the dialogue.  

Ultimate Comics Avengers vs New Ultimates #4 gets 2.5/5

Thor Review

Paramount Pictures

It's the beginning of summer, so that means a new Marvel movie.  But what makes this movie better is it's another step towards the Avengers next summer.  Thor takes a lot of risks, and they all pay off.  Thor is a very well made movie that is entertaining all around.

Thor (Chris Hemsworth) is an arrogant man (boy if you ask Odin).  While he respects his father Odin (Anthony Hopkins), but thinks he isn't securing their gates by attacking the Frost Giants.  Thor heads over to Jotunheim and starts a war between the Asgardians and the Frost Giants.  Enraged, Odin banishes Thor to Earth, and sends Mjolnir (Thor's hammer) with him.  Once he is worth, he can wield the hammer again.  While on Earth, Thor meets Jane Foster, an astrophysicist.  While on Earth, Loki (Tom Hiddleston) is being the trickster he is, setting things in motion for him to become king.

The plot is very similar to J. Michael Straczynski's relaunch in 2007.  The film takes place after Iron Man 2, as the after credits scene from Iron Man 2 is put into this film.  It's a small thing like that helps solidify these movies as a real universe.  And much like Iron Man 2, this film has an agenda.  But it fixes the ham-fisted nature of Iron Man 2.  Hawkeye is introduced, but it feels natural to the story. There are slight references to The Incredible Hulk and the Iron Man series, which is fun to hear.  The after credits scene sets up next summer's The Avengers.  There aren't as many hints as in Iron Man 2, but this is probably for the best.

The plot is very solid overall.  It deconstructs the nature of Thor while having him adjust to human life so  they don't have to deal with that in The Avengers.  The scope is beyond huge, and thankfully the high concepts are explained in a way that the audience doesn't feel lost.

Chris Hemsworth is very likable and plays up the fish out of water part very well.  The comic relief he can occasionally bring is funny.  Natalie Portman isn't given a lot to work with, but she does a great job.  Her sudden infatuation with Thor reminds me of Thor: The Mighty Avenger.  And to everyone pointing out what happened between Thor and Sif, there is never a relationship established in the movie.  Tom Hiddleston plays Loki very well.  I liked how he is established as a powerful god, even though he isn't bulky as Thor.  As a personal preference, I wish the Warrior Three could have brought a little more comic relief.  Especially Volstagg.

I did notice a hick up or two with the special effects.  During the Jotunheim scene, it's fairly obvious there is a green screen at a couple of points.  I do wish the relationship between Thor and Jane could have been developed a little more.  It seems to amount to a little more than infatuation, but I'll make a full judgement on that after a second viewing

The real payoff with Thor though is an audience is willing to pay to see gods and magic.  If Thor failed, we might not see a Dr. Strange film or Nova film.  The writers of movies like those will need to watch Thor and find what was done right.  With the critical and commercial success of Thor, Dr. Strange will no doubt be fast tracked.

Overall, Thor gets 4.5/5

Reviews for Fear Itself #2, Moon Knight #1 and more...

Hey everyone.  I'm done with college now, so that means more reviews!  Sorry for not posting reviews the past few weeks, but I had a 20 page, a 5 page, and a 7 page paper to write as well as a ton of other stuff.  The past few weeks were really good, with Marvel spoiling us by publishing two issues of Uncanny X-Force.  Action Comics #900 came out and was decent.  Brightest Day #24 was.......eh.  But this week was a blast.  One of my favorite weeks of the year so far, comics wise.  Well here we go!

Marvel Comics

Deadpool #36:  It seems that the Deadpool hating has come to an end, as the books have been trimmed down.  But the original Deadpool ongoing is still around and it's still one of the best reads each week it comes out.

Deadpool decides to come home from his space-capades.  While he was gone though, all of his "friends" wanted to kill him.  Deadpool comes home to find this out from Bob, who was the person that told their ring leader, Macho Gomez, that the Merc with a Mouth is back.  Naturally, Macho gets the group together to take down Deadpool.  The group is Weasel, Macho Gomez, Blind Al, Taskmaster, Big Bertha, and Sluggo.  Insanity ensues, with bullets flying everywhere.  Deadpool survives and decides he needs better friends.

What I love about Daniel Way's Deadpool is the occasional one and done like this where Deadpool looks at himself and what he has become.  It doesn't bog down the funny book, but it's somber enough.  Deadpool can't be hilarious all the time.  A psychotic character like him needs to have an issue like this.  The last time we had an issue like this, Deadpool went down the road to become a hero.  Personally, I think Deadpool became the hero he set out to be.  He has saved a lot of people since he went out to become a hero.  Look at what he did with the X-Men on Utopia.  The cover for next month doesn't look promising for finding a friend, but it will no doubt lead to funny things.

When I saw that Sheldon Vella was the penciler for this issue, I was ecstatic.  I loved the last issue he did on Deadpool and think he natural fit for the feel of the book.  His art is slightly over the top while still grounded.  It's what Deadpool is.  Marvel needs to assign him Deadpool for good.

Overall, Deadpool #36 gets 5/5

 Marvel Comics

Deadpool Annual #1:  Last months Amazing Spider-Man Annual #38 started the Identity Wars arc by John Layman.  I enjoyed the first part of the arc, and I must say I enjoyed the second part just as much.

Deadpool has been having the time of his life with his alternate reality counterpart.  Turns out that his counterpart isn't his counterpart.  In this universe, Wade Wilson is the equivalent of Doctor Doom, called Death Mask.  Deadpool thinks up an extravagant plan to kill Death Mask while tricking Spider-Man (dressed as the Amazing Spider).  Deadpool pulls the ol' switchero an takes the place of his counterpart, just like Spider-Man did in his annual.  And we also learn a good amount about why the Hulk hasn't appeared yet in the two annuals.

Like I said last month, Layman makes a very believable universe.  It's funny to see what Deadpool could have become if he got treated instead of going into Weapon X.  I have always like the way Spider-Man and Deadpool have played off of each other, only if they are handled by a talented writer.  While I liked Daniel Way's arc with Spider-Man, the humor was hit or miss.  This issue was all hit.

Juan Doe does a good job on penciler.  What takes it down from a great is the hiccups in head structure.  There are far to many head problems with Spider-Man, where his head is suddenly an odd shape.  His work is good overall though.  The fight scenes are kinetic.

Overall, Deadpool Annual #1 gets 4/5

Marvel Comics

Fear Itself #2:  My review of Fear Itself #1 could be summed up in one word: amazing.  And that word is going to stay over to this month.  If anything, this issue is better than #1.  Minor spoilers ahead

America is being attacked.  Many citizens are getting diseases and dying, while the hammers make their way down to Earth.  The Worthy are making themselves known.  Juggernaut, Titania, and Hulk get their hammers.  The Absorbing Man is known to get a hammer, as said by Titania.  Commander Rogers is starting to send out the Avengers where they are needed.  But as more and more Worthy grab their hammers, are the Avengers going to be out-powered?

Matt Fraction does a superb job of instilling the reader with fear throughout the book.  While things felt bad at the end of #1, things feel downright sad at the end of this issue.  The feeling gradually goes as the Worthy grab their hammers, and it's surprising the way you feel at the end.  And as you reread #2, it becomes more clear that this isn't going to an easy battle for the Avengers.  There are some plot points hinted at, such as the Hulk still being a hero as he is controlled by the hammer.  We also learn some history of the Serpent, who gets some great character development without appearing that much.  If something scares Odin, then we should be scared.

Stuart Immonen pencils a beautiful book.  I went through the book again, not reading the text, and I still understood what was going on.  His art is that great.  The faces are incredibly real and it's a pleasure to just marvel at what he has done.  Immonen did a great job in his past assignments (New Avengers, Ultimate Spider-Man), but this is on another level.  The final splash page is truly terrifying and actually hit with the weight that Fraction intended too.  As a jaded comic reader, this is something that doesn't happen often.

Fear Itself #2 gets 5/5

Marvel Comics

Herc #2:  After reading Herc #1, I saw a ton of potential.  It reminded me of Hawkeye & Mockingbird and S.W.O.R.D.; books that are great but could end soon because no one bought them.  After reading #2, I think that Herc has the chance to stay around.

Hercules continues to battle the Hobgoblin, using his history to stave off the villain.  Hercules makes an announcement to the people of Brooklyn that he is their new protector.  The Kingpin takes notice of this, and makes a visit.  And being the conniving son of a bitch he is, he helps Hercules to gain his trust.  While Hercules isn't the smartest bulb in the bunch, he doesn't trust him right away.  But Herc is the new hero of Brooklyn, with what seems to be a new girlfriend.  A big twist ending will have to wait though.  Fear Itself is coming next month.

Greg Pak and Fred Van Lente can't be praised enough for the writing of this issue.  It's funny without forcing the humor down the readers throat.  Herc really seems like a hero in these books.  He is a hero who is trying to find his place in the Marvel Universe, and he just naturally makes one in Brooklyn.  His initial suspicion of the Kingpin shows how far the character has come from his oafish ways.  I'm very interested to see him have a stable girlfriend.  The ladies man Hercules is going to have a hard time keeping a steady girlfriend, which will lead to funny things.

Neal Edwards has come a long way from his Fantastic Four days.  His penciling has improved greatly, but he still has a few things to fix.  At one point, Rhea's chest disappears completely.  And why hasn't the Hobgoblin adopted his more gargoyle-y appearance that we have seen in Amazing Spider-Man?  These are a few minor complaints for an overall good issue from Edwards.  It's clear he has improved his work, and I look forward to him improving even further.

Herc #2 gets 4/5.

Marvel Comics

Heroes for Hire #6:  The last few months have not been pleasant for Heroes for Hire.  The book lost the fun that made it the top of my pull list.  I was on the verge of not buying #6, but decided to give it a shot when I went into the comic shop.  I'm so glad I did.

Paladin and Misty are trying to make Heroes for Hire the well respected institution it use to be.  While Paladin is trying to stop a drug deal, he is interrupted from Spider-Man.  Paladin is obviously feeling jealous that Spider-Man is a more well known hero than him, and doesn't want help.  Misty wants his help.  Paladin keeps going with the drug deal, but gets sidetracked and loses the truck.  Time for the Web Slinger to take over.

DnA have seemed to find the grove they developed in the first three issues.  There is a tiny bit of humor thrown in.  Paladin's attraction to Misty seems genuine, as does her attraction to him.  It seems completely real, and is surprisingly refreshing in comic books.  Spider-Man's appearance seems normal and DnA write the character very well.  While it seems easy to write Spider-Man, as he is an everyman.  But many writers can have a hard time writing his humor and balancing his need to do the right thing.  DnA have found a great way to balance this.

#6 is a return to form no doubt due to Brad Walker returning to the book.  His art is just stellar.  The panels have a great flow that should be shown to new artists.  The faces on characters are fantastic (look at Misty on page 8, final panel).  And Walker does something that is rather hard, he makes Batroc the Leaper look menacing.  The guy is a joke amongst most heroes, but he kicks Paladin's ass and it doesn't seem out of place.  He looks strong and able to fight amongst the best of them.

Overall, Heroes for Hire #6 gets 5/5.

Marvel Comics

Invincible Iron Man #503: This issue is one of the classic reasons that events can mess up writers.  They have a great arc going on and then they need to write into the big event.  I feel like this is the problem with Invincible Iron Man #503.

Tony is in a difficult situation with Doc Ock.  He needs to disable the bomb while not pissing Ock off.  While we learn a little bit of the history between Tony and Ock, Pepper isn't done saving the day against Electro and Sandman.  But Otto reveals a trick up his sleeve and everything is done.

It's fairly obvious that this arc got in the way of Fear Itself.  The first two issues were really good, and the finale looked to be really good.  But then the plot just gets pulled out from under us.  Fraction does a decent job keeping the issue filled with developments, some that will no doubt come to head after the big crossover.  This is the second book this week that has had it's overall story interrupted by Fear Itself.  That other book was Herc.  But that story actually came naturally and the story didn't have to forsake so much to be put on the back burner.  With Fraction actually writing both Fear Itself and Invincible Iron Man, I'd suspect this would have been easier.

Larroca does his usual decent job.  The action scenes look good while the talking head panels leave something to desire.

Overall, Invincible Iron Man #503 gets 3.5/5.

Marvel Comics

The Mighty Thor #1:  Relaunches are a tough thing to justify in comics.  But what makes it easier is a movie coming out.  It makes it easier for fans of the film to jump into the comics.  With The Mighty Thor #1 though, this trend breaks.

Picking up fairly soon after Thor #621, the Asgardians have sent a team down into the World Tree to see what is going on.  Thor and Sif find a seed that has given Thor a particular problem.  The townsfolk of Broxton are going about their everyday lives.  Meanwhile in space, the Silver Surfer senses the seed from the World Tree.  Thinking it would be a good source of energy for his master, Galactus.

Unlike most relaunches, this one doesn't sacrifice story at all.  Every relaunch I have read usually dials down past story lines for a year or so to accommodate new readers.  The Mighty Thor doesn't skip a beat, feeling like a natural continuation of Fraction's time on Thor.  This places a lot on new readers, which I feel could be off putting.  This book is great for long time readers of comics, as it is a great time to jump on the book.  Much like the last arc for Thor, this issue starts out very strong, with the scope being massive.  With this arc taking place before Fear Itself, it's kind of limited with how much development we can have.  Thor has to be in the place he is at the beginning of Fear Itself.  Fraction is a great writer, so he will no doubt handle it well.

Olivier Coipel returns to the book, and his penciling is better than ever.  The multiple double page spreads look amazing, and you can stare at them forever.  The big work like creatures look awesome.  I'm curious to see the description that Fraction gave Coipel.  Did he give him detailed descriptions or just let Coipel go nuts.  I'm hoping for the second.  All of his characters have their own personality, with no two looking the same.

Overall, The Mighty Thor gets 4.5/5

Marvel Comics

Moon Knight #1:  I have been avid Moon Knight fan for a while.  I loved the last two ongoings that have come out.  While Vengeance of the Moon Knight was eh, it was kinda fun.  But with the news that Bendis and Maleev were going to be the team on a new Moon Knight ongoing, I was ecstatic.  And #1 lives up to my lofty expectations.

Marc Spector has moved out to LA, selling his old Moon Knight stories as a TV show.  It's been hugely successful, making Spector rather rich.  When he leaves the party, he finds himself visited by Spider-Man, Captain America, and Wolverine.  They say he needs to keep LA in check, with all the super heroes over in New York City.  Moon Knight stops a deal between Mr. Hyde and.....someone.  They have massive powers and wanted what Hyde had in his ship.........an Ultron.

Pill popper Marc Spector can be interesting, but seeing Spector somewhat be sane is a nice change of pace.  The last panel isn't really surprising due to the massive advertising campaign.  It's still a great read, and a lot of that is due to Bendins.  It has a Daredevil-y feel to it, which is good.  But it doesn't stick to the Daredevil format.  It has it's own voice and Marc Spector isn't a super powered person like Matt Murdock.  

Alex Maleev changes his style up for this book.  It's a lot looser than Daredevil and Scarlet.  This really suits action scenes, with the fight between Moon Knight and Hyde flowing like a dream.  The few reviews I have read of #1 have put people on the fence with his art.  I like it, and look forward to what else he has up his sleeve.  

Overall, Moon Knight #1 gets 5/5

Marvel Comics

Uncanny X-Force #8: Uncanny X-Force has been the best book that Marvel has been putting out.  It's been blazingly fun to watch Rick Remender dissect what it means to be a hero while being funny and memorable.

What makes #8 extra good is that it is steeped in Marvel continuity, but still very accessible.  When the villain appeared, the Shadow King, I didn't know who he was.  I had never heard of him or his power set.  But his powers and back story are quickly discussed.  It's all exhibition, but never feels like it.  As you might have noticed, I haven't given a summary.  This is one of those comics that needs to be read to fully understand and appreciate.  And this is all due to Rick Remender.  Uncanny X-Force would have fallen apart under the reign of a lesser writer.  Every issue has some point to make about super heroes and their nature in the world.  Are the really helping anyone?  Should they really be controlled by Deathloks?  It's incredibly interesting and every issue leaves a lasting affect in a different way.

When Billy Tan was on New Avengers, I wasn't a big fan of his work.  The body designs were all over the place and the faces didn't look good at all.  But in between penciling Thor and now this book, his art has VASTLY improved.  The body designs are consistent, and even the talking head panels look great.  I reread the issue a couple of times, focusing on the art, and I fell more and more in love with it each time.  I'm happy that Billy Tan will be on the next issue.

Side note, Uncanny X-Force is still the only book that has gotten a 5/5 from me each month.  It's the only book that has done that in my time reviewing.

Overall, Uncanny X-Force #8 gets 5/5