Comic Reviews 9/7/12

Here In Bongo Congo

     Good King Leonardo has selected an eclectic variety of new comic books for us to review this week.  So let's get right to it and see for ouselves what these new issue titles are all about:
 

Before Watchmen: Dr. Manhattan #1

Publisher: D.C. Comics

J. Michael Straczynski: Writer

Adam Hughes: Art

Laura Martin: Colors

     DC Comics has expanded its stable of Before Watchmen titles by publishing issue #1 of a four-issue mini-series focusing on everybody's favorite blue-skinned scientist superhero, Dr. Manhattan.  For the uninitiated, we're currently in the middle of a DC mega-event which features a series of prequel comic titles to Alan Moore's acclaimed Watchmen comic series/graphic novel.  Each limited series centers on different characters from Watchmen, including Nite Owl, Silk Spectre, Ozymandias, Rorschach, The Minutemen and now Dr. Manhattan.  Again for non-Watchmen fans, Dr. Manhattan is scientist Dr. Jon Osterman, the victim of a 1950's science accident who can manipulate the laws of quantum mechanics to travel the timestream and to some degree manipulate probabilities and outcomes of events.

    The issue #1 storyline is entitled "What's In The Box?" and alternates between three sub-plots.  One storythread is a basic background primer on Jon himself, alternating scenes from various stages of his life, as such briefing the reader on the childhood, teen year and adult episodes of his life that molded the stoic personality that readers came to know in the original 1980's Watchmen series.  A brief second storythread connects this title to events also unfolding in the other Before Watchmen titles, as Dr. Manhattan slightly alters probability events to assure that his attraction to Silk Spectre blossoms into romance.  Our third sub-plot follows Dr. Manhattan in a risky experiment in which he timetravels back to observe the accident that created his altered state of being.  The issue ends in a surprise cliffhanger, as the good Doctor discovers a shocking difference in the accident completely at odds with his original experience.

     As a regular reader of most of the Before Watchmen titles, I've found the quality of those other titles ranging from average to above average, with none of them approaching the classic narrative and literary quality of Moore's original series.  But if anyone could near that level of storytelling greatness its A-plus writer J. Michael Straczynski and sure enough, he's pulled himself pretty darn close to Moore's writing level with this new series.  While the other series writers seek instead to add their own perspective to the Watchmen universe, Straczynski rolls the dice and immerses himself right into Alan Moore's take on Dr. Manhattan as a haunted and tragic story figure.  The same melancholy riffs on the nature of life and being are here, mixed-in with the soap opera issues that Manhattan, Silk Spectre and the rest of the Watchmen crew experience, all played-out against the tense, ticking backdrop of impending universal doom.

     Straczynski and the art team pull-off this Moore-like storytelling approach so well that in my opinion, one could read this issue and assume that Alan Moore himself had written this particular prequel.  While Moore most likely would be furious to read that observation given his well-publicized opposition to DC's prequel publishing event, that's a complement to this creative team that's very well-deserved.  Its also worth noting that of the four Before Watchmen titles that I'm currently reading, this series succeeds the most as both a stand-alone read and a component within the overall multi-title series narrative.

     So enough already with my praise!  Dr. Manhattan is by far the best piece of the Before Watchmen universe, so my review advice is to either focus on this title if you're selectively choosing among the series titles or alternately, savor this title amongst all of the titles as another major product from the keyboard of J. Michael Straczynski, proving once again that he's in a rare league of his own at the very top of today's comic book writing profession.

Young Justice #18

Publisher: D.C. Comics

Greg Weisman: Writer

Christopher Jones: Art

Zac Atkinson: Colors

     DC's Young Justice comic book title is up to issue #18 this month.  The series is a kid-friendly comic book counterpart to the Cartoon Network television show featuring a teenaged version of the Justice League.  The team make-up includes Superboy, Robin/Dick Grayson, Kid Flash, Aqualad, Miss Martian and a female teen Green Arrow-type named Artemis Crock.  The series is scripted by Greg Weisman with art by Christopher Jones and colors by Zac Atkinson.

     The current multi-issue story arc is entitled "Monkey Business" and features an ongoing confrontation between the teen heroes and The Brain, a giant villainous superbrain (naturally!) who's assisted in his bad deeds by a bunch of scientifically-enhanced, super-intelligent gorillas including our old Flash storyverse friend Gorilla Grodd.  After a three-page introductory visual summary of the story to-date, the superteens get into an issue-long extended jungle battle with the bad guys.  After much back-and-forth maneuvering, the supergorrillas manage to capture most of the team, with the exception of Miss Martian and Superboy's pet wolf (named "Wolf," of course).  The issue concludes in an interesting twist of a bridge to next month's installment, as it appears that there are cracks in the unity of the villains, with Gorilla Grodd unexpectedly attempting to ally with the on-the-run Miss Martian against The Brain.

     DC markets the segment of its title inventory which includes Young Justice as comic books that are kid-friendly yet entertaining for readers of all ages.  I agreed with this pitch when I previously reviewed the "Batman: The Brave & The Bold" title and I agree even more after reading Young Justice #18.  This title has a bunch of good stuff going for it.  First-up is the writing skill of Greg Weisman, who gives us a story with a pitch-perfect blend of teen humor and comic book drama.  The television cartoon visual style of Jones and Atkinson also fits very well to this type of young teen comic book storytelling.  I also was impressed with the seamless weaving of old and new DC storyverse elements into this tale.  Entertaining old-school story elements included the featuring of Flash storyverse supergorillas (for which I have a major fan weakness!) along with secondary character use of Batman and Captain Marvel as mentors to the team.  Regarding new elements, I enjoyed the prominence of Miss Martian and Artemis in this series, who as female teenaged heroes embodied more loose, realworld teenlike personalities than their stodgy male senior counterparts.

     So a double thumbs-up positive review recommendation for Young Justice, both as an excellent comic book series for younger readers and also for living-up to its expectations as a comic book that truly can be enjoyed by fanboys and fangirls of all reading ages, from young kid to old adult and everyone in between!

Phantom Lady & Doll Man #1

Publisher: D.C. Comics

Justin Gray & Jimmy Palmiotti: Writers

Cat Staggs: Pencils

Tom Derenick: Inks

Jason Wright: Colors

     DC Comics has just published issue #1 of a four-issue mini-series starring Phantom Lady and Doll Man.  Both characters originated back in the earliest days of the Golden Age of comics.   While there have been a zillion different versions over the decades of these two costumed heroes, its interesting to note that Doll Man was created in 1939 by the legendary Will Eisner and as such predated DC's The Atom as the first shrinking comic book superhero.  This latest title pairs the duo in a storyline scripted by the team of Justin Gray and Jimmy Palmiotti, with pencils by Cat Staggs, inks by Tom Derenick and colors by Jason Wright.

    The multi-issue story arc is entitled "Chasing Shadows" and alternates between flashback and present-day scenes to present the storyline.  Phantom Lady is Jennifer Bender, who as a child witnessed her parents murder at the hands of a Metropolis crime boss.  Now a young adult, Jennifer has infiltrated the ranks of the crime boss's family by dating one of his violently looney sons.  To make a long story short, Jennifer's cover is blown, whereupon her female best friend is badly beaten as a warning to her; Jennider flees to her male buddy Dane, who in this title is a loner scientist working to create his shrinking technology.  When the gangsters track down and retaliate further against Jennifer, Dan's shrinking machine accidentally works on him, with his newly-discovered ability primed and ready for use in next month's issue #2.

     My initial reaction to this comic was to consider giving it a mixed, albeit slightly positive review.  But after mulling it over for a day or so, I shifted to a more-deserved thumbs-down negative recommendation, for a few reasons.  My biggest peeve is the decision of the writing team to paint Jennifer as a weak victim in this storyline.  Here's a woman who demonstrates some real superpowers abilities, but consistently behaves in her personal life as an emotionally-abused, mousy victim of a gangster boyfriend.  It also creeps me out that she's willing to sleep with a murderer to get closer to avenging her dead parents.  Throughout the issue, there's an over-the-top, non-stop barrage of physical and emotional abuse of Jennifer and her girlfriend at the hands of these serial killers to the point where an eventual flowering of her superhero persona in upcoming issues just doesn't connect with the overall approach to this storyline.

     While I'm a fan of many comic books scripted by the Gray-Palmiotti writing duo, once in awhile the pair goes off the beaten path to pursue what they no doubt feel is dramatic storytelling edginess, but instead produces a product that tanks into a cheesy, flat story.  Mix into my criticisms above some unbearably flat dialogue between Jennifer and Dane in which he whines about wanting them to be more than "just friends" and you can sort this title into the cheesy-flat pile of the Gray-Palmiotti story inventory.  And that's a shame, because these two iconic, early-Golden Age superhero characters deserve better storytelling treatment than the third-rate dialogue and story convolution that's rampant throughout this latest Phantom Lady-Doll Man presentation.

Justice League #12

Publisher: D.C. Comics

Geoff Johns: Writer

Jim Lee: Pencils

Many Inkers & Colorists

     I recently read that Justice League is one of the most popular superhero comic titles currently being published, so I decided to review the current issue #12.  The latest team membership is fairly traditional and includes Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Green Lantern, The Flash and someone called Cyborg.  The current plot is written by Geoff Johns with pencils by Jim Lee.  Oddly, fourteen different artists share the credits for each producing a portion of this issue's inking and coloring.

     The current tale is entitled "Rescue From Within" and is being marketed as including a big first kiss in DC's long history between iconic A-listers Superman and Wonder Woman.  There are three sub-plots that weave around each other to move this storyline forward toward the conclusion's expected "super smooch."  Without being a detail spoiler, there's a battle scene and ongoing conflict between the Justice Leagers and an ordinary journalist who becomes possessed by evil spirits that empower him with superpowered abilities.  A second plot thread features Wonder Woman's former boyfriend Colonel Steve Trevor, who represents the team as their liaison with the media and the government.  A third sub-plot dominates the second half of the issue; after enduring public backlash against the team in follow-up to their most recent public battles, the League has a dramatic, multi-page meeting to hash-out their problems.  The issue ends on a double dramatic note, as one team member resigns as a public relations move to protect the team, while Superman and Wonder Woman feel lonely and have a bonding conversation that leads to that kiss.

     This is an interesting Justice League storyline.  While nothing classic or mega-event is going-on, there are three elements that make the issue a very solid read.  The first is the well-crafted dialogue and strong artwork; writer Johns and penciler Lee balance the story very well among all members of the League, giving us a tale that nicely features everyone dealing with the story situation as a working superteam.  Secondly, I liked the storythread in which the team struggles to deal with their rapidly declining image among the general populace.  There's an intriguing debate among the members as to whether superheros should just go about their world-saving business or prioritize improving their likability and comfort factor with the general population. 

     And third is the issue of "the big kiss."  While it might seem somewhat overblown in today's more explicit pop culture environment, it is interesting that as far as I know, there's never been any real romantic development between these two characters over the many decades of the DC universe.  It would be fun for this little plot element to grow into something more serious between the pair; I personally would like DC to throw the dice and echo the old Batman/daughter-of-Ras Al Ghul soap opera, a romance which produced the bratty Damian Robin.  Can you imagine a bratty Superkid as the son of Superman and Wonder Woman?!  Chances are this smooch ain't going anywhere in terms of major DC universe soap opera shenanigans, but its still fun to speculate and it adds a nice story element to this title. 

     On a final review note, there's a nice three-page back-of-the-book preview of upcoming story developments in this title, including a neat two-page spread introducing a rival Justice League that will challenge this traditional team make-up.  I was very intrigued by the make-up of the second team, which presents a nice mix of older and more recent DC superheroes, along with one well-known character who's often a villainess (guess who!).  So by all means check-out the many goings-on in this enjoyable latest issue of Justice League.

Contest Winner Announcement!!!

     Our latest contest was posted in light of our Red Sox missing this year's upcoming Major League Baseball postseason play-offs.  We challenged you to tell us what other MLB team you'd be rooting for to make the play-offs.  And our winner is (drumroll, please)...Gregory Goding, who tells us that he'd like the Washington, D.C.-based Nationals to win because "they've been miserable dating back to their days as the (Montreal) Expos.  Also, they built their team mainly through the draft which is more acceptable than buying a team like the Yankees and both LA teams have done."  Some good analysis and reasoning by Gregory as to why this non-Red Sox team deserves its turn at the championship podium.  So congratulations to Gregory who wins our first-prize $10.00 gift certificate to That's Entertainment!

New Contest Challenge Announcement!!!

     Its time to put our creative thinking caps back on with a new comic book-based contest.  So let's play "What If."  In the Justice League comic book review above, we mentioned that it would be fun for DC to roll the dice, having Superman and Wonder Woman's romance blossom to the point where they have a Superkid, a la the bratty Batman progeny Damien/Robin.  Your challenge this week is to e-mail us at Gordon_A@msn.com no later than Wednesday, September 19 and pitch to us your own idea for an unexpected comic book character/story development that you'd like to see.  Take a risk here, propose some hero or story character(s) unexpectedly dying, changing identities, behaving or doing something completely unexpected and out-of-character, etc.  Maybe you have an idea for a good guy to become a villain or vice-versa. You get the picture!

     We'll not only choose a winner of our first prize $10.00 gift certificate to That's Entertainment, but we'll forward any interesting ideas to the respective publishers and maybe you'll eventually see your creative idea in a published storyline!  Please note that our first prize $10.00 gift certificate to That's Entertainment is redeemable for regular retail merchandise or in-store ongoing specials, only.

     That's all for now, so have two great NFL watching (Go Patriots!) and comic book reading weeks and see you again on Friday, September 21 Here In Bongo Congo!

Comic Reviews 8/24/12

Here In Bongo Congo

     Good King Leonardo has decreed that its once again Science Fiction Week Here In Bongo Congo!  So let's see what this group of new comic books with Science Fiction storylines are all about:
 

Harbinger #1

Publisher: Valiant Entertainment LLC

Joshua Dysart: Writer

Khari Evans: Art

Ian Hannin: Colors

     Valiant Entertainment is up to issue #2 of a new science fiction thriller comic book series entitled Harbinger.  I backtracked to last month's kick-off issue #1 for this review, in order to get a better feel for the concept of this series.  The comic book is scripted by Joshua Dysart with art by Khari Evans and colors by Ian Hannin.

     Issue #1 kicks-off a multi-issue storyline entitled "Omega Rising." The plot introduces us to a story concept centering on psiots, rare humans who have both telepathic ability and can make people do whatever they want them to.  Our main character is Pittsburgh teenager Peter Stancek, on the run from bad guy forces who want to harness his abilities for their own unknown purposes.  The issue #1 plot is an orientation to Peter's difficult situation, in which he struggles with three challenges: staying ahead of his pursuers, stealing prescription medication to dampen the uncontrollable flood of random people's thoughts bombarding his brain and helping his buddy Joe, a mentally ill non-psiot teen who accompanies him on his desperate flight from evil.

     A second sub-plot develops mid-issue, introducing two additional characters into Peter's life.  There's Kris, a childhood crush upon whom the lonely Peter desperately uses his powers to falsely love him and there's middle-aged Toyo Harada, the head of a vast Asian business corporation and a fellow psiot.  Without being a detail spoiler, Harda reaches out via his powers to Peter from across the globe, educating both Peter and the reader regarding the scope of their abilities and the possibilities of Harada both helping Peter with his problems and partnering with him to do some good in the world.  The issue ends in a dramatic bridge to issue #2, as the bad guys seemingly corner Peter and Joe in a cliffhanger confrontation.

     Initially, I questioned whether the creative team could offer a fresh and entertaining spin on the oft-presented, well-worn theme of a teenager struggling to control telepathic powers.  Happily, the crew delivers that entertainment; writer Joshua Dysart weaves together several plotthreads that provide the necessary freshness, with two storylines particularly worthy of mention.  The first is the mystery of psiot Toyo Harada, who we learn about both in flashback and present-day scenes.  My guess is that he's a legitimate good guy and mentor to Peter, but there's an aura of mystery about him that could take his character over to the dark side.  There's also the theme of ethics here, as Peter has immorally used his powers to falsely make his crush Kris love him.  In issue #1, Harda confronts Peter regarding the sleaziness of this action and it should be interesting to see how the comic book addresses this weighty ethical issue in future story segments.

      In sum, a positive thumbs-up review recommendation is deserved of this new science fiction comic book, which succeeds in presenting both a fresh plot and entertaining approach to the theme of folks struggling to control and use their rare and special powers, not as costumed heroes but rather in the context of the everyday world.

Planetoid #1

Publisher: Image Comics, Inc.

Ken Garing: Story & Art

     Image Comics has released two issues so far of a new comic book entitled "Planetoid."  As with the Harbinger title reviewed above, I reviewed issue #1 in order to get the best feel for the concept of the title.  The new series is the creation of Ken Garing, who apparently worked for years creating this title as an independent project, then pitched it at a comic book convention to Image Publishing and was accepted for publication.  This is a great story reaffirming that one should always follow their dreams and creative aspirations, for you never know just how and when your efforts will succeed.

     Planetoid is a traditonal hard science fiction outer space adventure series.  The plot centers on space voyager Silas, a space military deserter who crashlands on a small planet (planetoid) after his attempt at space piracy goes awry.  The story begins cloaked in mystery, as Silas explores the weird environment of vast technological debris and wreckage littering the entire landscape of the small world.  In the midst of some heavy duty action-adventure, Silas is rescued from harm by Mendel, an elderly fellow castaway who explains that the junk world is an abandoned industrial colony.  Mendel also reveals that there's no way to leave or communicate off of the planetoid, due to its odd electromagnetic atmosphere, whose radiation interferes with all such attempts.  By the end of issue #1, Silas is determined to try to reach other humans whom Mendel indicates live on the planetoid and to find a way off of the small planet.

     I'm always leery of comic book products that begin with an unknown creator plucked out of the convention attendee ranks for a rare chance at professional achievement (see my review of Captain Marvel #1 in last week's review column).  So its always a pleasure to come across the unexpected effort that produces such a top notch product as Planetoid.  Quite simply, newcomer Ken Garing has produced a comic book with the skill of a seasoned comic book industry pro.  The story structure and characterization is the equivalant of the better written science fiction magazine short stories. Garing shows a strong skill in detailed storytelling, deftly utilizing narrative and visual flashbacks to fill the reader in on backstory elements that are important to the plot situation. The artwork is both beautiful and the perfect visual style suited for this type of outer space sci-fi adventure telling.

     This new comic book just brims over with storytelling potential, ranging from hints of artificial intelligence lurking deep within the depths of the planetoid's junkpiles to Silas's upcoming interaction with his fellow castaways and his only friend Mendel.  So whether you're a hard science fiction fan or just looking for entertaining comic book storytelling (or you're looking for a combination of both!), don't miss-out on the chance to be entertained from the very beginning of this excellent new comic book adventure series.

Dial H #4

Publisher: D.C. Comics

China Mieville: Writer

Mateus Santolouco: Art

     DC Comics is up to issue #4 of its "Dial H For Hero" reboot that's being published as part of the second year of the New 52 rebranding of their comics line.  For the uninitiated, the series originated in the Silver Age House of Mystery title.  That version starred Robby Reed as a teen who discovered a mysterious phone dial that transformed him into a different superhero everytime he dialed the letters HERO. Robby is replaced in the title reboot by an overweight and unemployed character named Nelson Jent.  The original series was popular for Reed transforming each time into a fresh hero whose identity, costume and powers had to be created with each new monthly issue.  The reboot shortens the series title to simply "Dial H" and is written by well-known British science fiction author China Mieville with art by Mateus Santolouco.

     Issue #4 is the latest installment of a multi-issue story arc that has a very strong science fiction theme.  The story initially focuses on Squid, an alien unstuck in time who is adrift through various timelines and dimensions until corralled into our timeframe by a supervillain.  To make a long story short, Squid is psychically tied to a weird being of immense power.  When our bad guy attempts to control this powerful being, Nelson Jent steps-in with the assistance of a female character who also has her own Dial H device.  Without being a story spoiler, everyone invlolved in this situation battles through various ups-and-downs, with the story segment ending in a battle cliffhanger to be picked-up and continued in next month's issue #5.

     I'm giving this comic book a well-deserved mixed review.  On the negative side, the first half of the story segment is incredibly muddled, to the point where a reader who hasn't read the previous title issues has no idea what is going on.  While China Mieville is an acclaimed science fiction author, he's also known as a proponent of a new subgenre called "Weird Science Fiction," and the abstractness of his unique narrative approach is disastrous for the reader to figure-out what's going on here.  On the plus side, the story narrative clouds suddenly dissipate mid-issue, and for the second half of the tale we have a somewhat understandable and interesting story sequence.  I particularly enjoyed Nelson Jent's ability to improvise and prevail in a tough situation when denied access for a time to his superpower dial.  Its clear that given enough time and monthly issues, some of the storytelling in this title could effectively explore the transformation of Nelson from his life of Everyman failure to actually succeeding in his non-superpowered life.

     In the end, the out-there writing style of China Mieville just doesn't sync well with the concept of Dial H, as evidenced by the disconnection of the first half of the tale with understandable comic book storytelling.  So I'd urge readers interested in judging this series for themselves to gain some semblance of plot understanding by starting with issue #1 of this series.  And my review advice to DC Comics is two-fold: first, add a brief narrative story-to-date summary to the start of each monthly issue and secondly, ditch the high concept/attempt-to-be-edgy writing approach by replacing China Mieville with a writer who can provide this series with the much-needed comic book storytelling quality that the rich history of Dial H For Hero, as well as its old and new fans, rightly deserve.

Resurrection Man #12

Publisher: D.C. Comics

Dan Abnett & Andy Lanning: Writers

Javier Pina: Artist

Jeromy Cox: Colors

     Another science fiction-themed comic book within DC's New 52 inventory is Resurrection Man.  The series is a reboot of the initial 1990's title run.  It features Mitch Shelley, a South Carolina lawyer who has nanotechnology called tektites injected into him by a mysterious group known as "The Lab".  The technology allows Mitch to repeatedly rise from the dead with a new superpower with every experienced mortal incident.  The current series is scripted by original series creators Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning, with art by Javier Pina and colors by Jeromy Cox.

     Issue #12 is the latest installment of a multi-issue story arc entitled "The Reborn Identity."  At this point in the series, Mitch has been kidnapped by The Lab and forced to undergo a brutal series of virtual reality deaths to analyze the nature of his tektite-fueled power.  We learn that The Lab is filled with various employees who also are Tektite-infested but who each manifest various afflictions caused by the nanotechnology.  The plot shifts mid-issue into high action, as a pair of employees sympathize with Mitch's predicament and attempt to rescue and release him from captivity.  Without being a detail spoiler, the issue ends in a dramatic cliffhanger as the identity of the mysterious leader of The Lab, who also initially created Mitch's condition, is dramatically revealed.

     This is a very intriguing science fiction comic book concept presented in a very entertaining manner.  I thought of the concept as a spin-off from the Dial H plot idea reviewed above, albeit with the hero's repeated deaths triggering the random superpower guises instead of the simpler act of dialing a phone.  The creative team's product is strong and effective, with excellent artwork suitable to the thriller/action nature of the story and gripping action plotting from the team that created this character back in the 1990's.  There are two particular surprise plot twists that are outstanding: the presentation of Mitch's virtual reality plight, which is initially presented as a real world scenario and unexpectedly revealed to be fictitious, and the cliffhanger reveal of the chief villain behind all that is happening in the Resurrection Man storyverse.

     The ultimate complement to this issue is that its quality made me, the first-time reader, want to backtrack and read previous issues to enjoy the story progression leading-up to the details presented in issue #12.  So an obvious thumbs-up positive review recommendation is deserved for all Good DC Readers to do the same, enjoy issue #12 and if you haven't already done so, backtrack your way through the That's Entertainment inventory to check-out the previous issues, as well as issues from the initial 1990's title run.

Contest Winner Announcement!!!

    Our latest contest challenged you to tell us what you would purchase with our $10.00 prize gift certificate to That's Entertainment, if you were chosen as our winner-sort of a contest about our contest!  And our winner is (drumroll, please)...Erin O'Connor, who tells us that she would use the prize to purchase "those cool (model) insects" currently available at the store.  She's hoping that a butterfly is available for purchase.  An interesting choice, taking advantage of one of the many fine offerings at That's Entertainment beyond the comic book inventory.  Congratulations to Erin and hope you buy that butterfly real soon!

New Contest Challenge Announcement!!!

     The Bongo Congo Panel Of Contest Judges announce a baseball contest for this week.  As you know, our poor Red Sox are most likely not going to make the postseason play-offs this year.  As such, your new contest challenge is to e-mail us at Gordon_A@msn.com no later than Wednesday, September 5 telling us which major league team you're rooting for to make the playoffs and ultimately win the World Series.  Also pitch to us why you feel they deserve to be the big postseason winner this season.  For instance, my favorite non-Red Sox team for the postseason are the Pittsburgh Pirates.  I'd like to see them win it all because they're having a great year and they haven't been champions since they won the 1979 World Series when they were led by Willie Stargell, in the memorable "We Are Family" season.  Please note that our first prize $10.00 gift certificate to That's Entertainment is redeemable for regular retail merchandise or in-store ongoing specials, only.

     That's all for now, so have two great NFL preseason watching and comic book reading weeks and see you again on Friday, September 7 Here In Bongo Congo!

Comic Reviews 8/10/12

Here In Bongo Congo

     Good King Leonardo was on vacation last week so he only has two new comics to review this week, so let's see what's up with this pair of new offerings:

Critter #1

Publisher: Big Dog Ink

Tom Hutchison: Writer/Creator

Fico Ossio: Art & Colors

     Big Dog Ink has just published issue #1 of a new comic book entitled Critter.  This is the start of a follow-up series to a previous Critter title.  Teenager Cassie Crawford is "Critter," a legacy superhero whose mother was a telekinetic-powered hero.  Now Cassie dons her Mom's ears, tail and homemade costume to help people in need.  The series is created and scripted by Tom Hutchison with art and colors by Fico Ossio.

     This new series progresses Cassie's adventures by moving her to Los Angeles for two purposes: to begin her college freshman year and to join a new team of superpowered women called Purrrfection.  Issue #1 focuses on introducing the series characters as well as establishing some initial plot tension.  Among the main characters we meet are Cassie/Critter herself and the four other feline-costumed members of Purrrfection, along with newspaper photographer Jason and a pair of superpowered bad guys.  The plot conflict focuses on tension between Cassie wanting to balance the college experience and superhero sides of her life while the Purrrfection team tries to woo her into abandoning college and immersing herself into the L.A. pseudo-celebrity superhero scene.  By issue's end, the superpowered baddies arrive on the scene, adding further complications to Cassie's efforts to figure-out the path of her new life in the big city.

     This is a fun and refreshing new series that provides the reader with an entertaining mix of both old and new comic book storytelling elements.  Regarding old, the whole superchicks-in-kittycat-costumes schtick is a neat update of the old Josie & The Pussycats comic/animated t.v. series.  This new team is much more evolved for 2012 reader sensibilities, with modern character personalities and story structure.  Two new story elements particularly worked for me.  First, I liked the dynamic of the superhero team living the reality t.v.-style L.A. media life, balancing their traditional superhero role with the lure of the Hollywood celebrity glamorous lifestyle.  So far, it looks like Purrrfection is too unbalanced toward the media glitz side of their world; by the end of issue #1, the girls haven't done any superheroing as they focus on the media marketing of their new member Cassie/Critter.

     Secondly, writer Hutchison's portrayal of the tensions in Cassie's life is well-presented.  I was reminded of the similar college/superheroing tension presented by DC in the recent Stephanie Brown/Batgirl series; it will be interesting to see how the same tension plays-out over time in Critter and whether Cassie's experiences are similar and/or different from Stephanie's in the previous Batgirl series. And a final review shout-out is deserved for Fico Ossio's artwork, which provides a high quality graphic and coloring style for this type of comic book tale.  So a definite thumbs-up positive review recommendation to add this entertaining new comic book title to your ever-growing summertime new comic book reading pile!

Captain Marvel #1

Publisher: Marvel Comics

Kelly Sue DeConnick: Writer

Dexter Soy: Art

     Marvel Comics has unveiled a significant make-over of the well-known Carol Danvers/Ms. Marvel superhero character.  As indicated in the title of this new series, with the previous death of the well-known male Captain Marvel, in addition to costume and hairstyle changes, our heroine is taking-on the name Captain Marvel.  The new comic book title is scripted by Kelly Sue DeConnick with art by Dexter Soy.

     The premier issue can be divided into two story sections.  The first subsection presents a lengthy fast action battle sequence, as Carol a.k.a Marvel pairs-up with Captain America to battle a superstrong villain.  The plot segues into a second sub-plot focusing on narrative angst, as post-battle Carol ruminates on whether or not she's worthy of taking-up the mantle of her deceased co-Marvel by accepting his name.  By issue's end, after progressing through a mix of flashback scenes and further interaction with Captain America and an aged female fighter pilot mentor, Carol comes to terms with accepting her identity changes and progressing into the next phase of her superhero life.

     I'm giving this re-boot of Ms. Marvel/Carol Danvers a thumbs-down negative recommendation for a few reasons.  The specifics of the character redeisgn don't work for me; while it is routine for most superheros to get a design makeover at some point, three details tank this particular effort.  One is the radical shift away from the fanboy's fantasy of the previous design of Ms. Marvel's look and costume.  I'll take the risk of political incorrectness and admit that the fanbase for most female superheros are males who are seeking a certain degree and style of character sexiness.  The full body length conservative new costume and "practical" new hairstyle of this character just screams unsexy drab and is sure to send the average male fanboy crowd away in search of more entertaining female comic book characters. It's worth noting that the Comic Buyer's Guide has ranked the traditional Ms. Marvel design as 29th among the top 100 sexiest women in comics.

     A second flaw is the dark and dreary art style of Dexter Soy.  A back-of-the-issue narrative reveals the artist as a wannabe plucked-out of the freelance fan crowd at a recent comic con for his first professional assignment; this just might also be his last gig if his dark and depressing visual style doesn't evolve into something more palatable for a fun comic book read. The third defect here centers on the renaming of Carol's superhero character.  Plain and simple, Ms. Marvel has been an A-list fixture for too long in the Marvel Universe to undergo any sort of name change without it feeling just uncomfortably wrong.  This is the equivalant of renaming Captain America as "Colonel America."  The change may get some initial upfront marketing notice, but in the long run its an adjustment that just feels like a grammatical error.

     Had Marvel created a brand-new female Captain Marvel character as a new complement to the Marvel Family universe, I think the fan base would be more comfortable and I personally would view this new effort more positively, albeit still in need of a different artist's interpretation.  And that might be a secret twist in this effort for Marvel to implement when the inevitable sales plummet kicks-in for this title.  But in its current format, the whole effort feels like the start of an experiment doomed to sooner-or-later failure and deserved of a recommendation to avoid the title for the sake of the so many much better female hero comic books on the new issues shelves right now. So to get your fix of decent Ms. Marvel comics, just check-out the extensive back issue bins or graphic compilation re-prints available at That's Entertainment.

Contest Winner Announcement!!!

     Our latest contest challenged you to list as many current and former Red Sox players as you can whose last name is the same as a Massachusetts city or town.  And our winner is (drumroll, please)...David McBarron, who compiled an impressive list of 37 players in that category.  Four players on David's list have last names of Central Massachusetts communities including Mike Paxton, Lenny Webster, Ray Webster and my personal favorite name, Tubby Spencer!  Congratulations to David who wins our first prize gift certificate to That's Entertainment!

New Contest Challenge Announcement!!!

     The Bongo Congo panel of contest judges have decreed that this week we have a contest challenge about our contest challenge!  As you know, our contest winners receive a $10.00 gift certificate to That's Entertainment.  Your assignment for this contest is to e-mail us at Gordon_A@msn.com no later than Wednesday, August 22 and tell us what specifically you would purchase at That's Entertainment if you were the selected prize winner.  The entrant with the most worthy purchase proposal will receive first prize and be able to fulfill his or her purchase dreams!  Please note that our first prize $10.00 girft certificate to That's Entertainment is redeemable for regular retail merchandise or in-store ongoing specials, only.

     That's all for now, so have two great August dogs days of summer comic book reading weeks and see you again on Friday, August 24 Here In Bongo Congo!

Comic Reviews 7/30/12

Here In Bongo Congo

     Since our good readers have been coping as best they can with the recent heatwave, Good King Leonardo has decreed that we try to beat this never-ending summer heat with some refreshing new comic books.  So let's check-out some of the latest cool offerings from the new comic book shelves:

 

Batman #11

Publisher:  D.C. Comics

Scott Snyder: Writer

Greg Capullo: Pencils

Jonathan Glapion: Inks

Fco Plascencia: Colors

 

     The multi-issue "Night Of The Owls" storyline that's been unfolding in The New 52 reboot of Batman concludes in this month's issue #11.  I reviewed an earlier installment in the saga, which introduces to the Batman storyverse a seemingly omnipotent evil organization called The Court Of Owls, which has been secretly operating in Gotham for several generations, using costumed operatives known as "Talons," as a kind of anti-Batman group of costumed evildoers.  The storyline is the creation of A-list writer Scott Snyder with pencils by Greg Capullo, inks by Jonathan Glapion and colors by Fco Plascencia.

 

     The issue #11 wrap-up story segment unfolds in two parts.  Part One presents a final battle confrontation between Batman and a powerful Talon who is revealed as Gotham politician Lincoln March.  March is under the belief that he's actually Thomas Wayne, Jr. the long-lost brother of Bruce Wayne who Bruce believes died in a childhood accident.  Part two of the tale takes place in the aftermath of the big battle; as Bruce recuperates from major injuries, he and Dick Grayson/Robin hold an extended dialogue regarding the vagueness of Lincoln's claim as well as the mystery of Lincoln disappearing at the end of the mega-fight.  The discussion concludes with the dynamic duo making peace regarding some lingering issues between the pair, as well as leaving the threat of the Court Of Owls and the mystery of Lincoln March's true identity open for consideration in future issues of Batman.

 

      Since I've only read one previous Court of Owls story, I was concerned that issue #11 wouldn't hold-up as a stand-alone issue to read.  Happily, the issue works very well both on its own and as a satisfying conclusion to the ongoing saga.  During the past few years, writer Scott Snyder has contributed some major new lore to the Batman storyverse and he's hit another homerun here with the concept of "The Owls."  I loved the twist of a potential evil Wayne brother confronting Bruce Wayne/Batman, and enjoyed very much the ambiguity of the situation; there's a nice emphasis here that the lost brother story could be true or false, and it will be up to future Batman issues to either put Lincoln's belief to rest as a grand allusion or alternately welcome him to the extended Batman family as the latest bad sheep of the family (maybe he can be roommates with the bratty Damian version of Robin!).

 

     Its important to also acknowledge a second story in this issue, scripted by the writing partnership of Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV.  Entitled "The Fall Of The House Of Wayne," its an elequent and emotional tale alternating present-day and flashback scenes that connect Batman's faithful butler Alfred as well as Alfred's father Jarvis to the multi-generational struggle between the Batman family and The Owls.  So a definite thumbs-up positive review recommendation for The Good DC Reader to enjoy this high quality issue #11 of Batman both as a satisfying conclusion to the current Owls storyarc and as an entertaining standalone Batman comic tale.

 

 

Batman Annual #1

Publisher: D.C. Comics

Scott Snyder & James Tynion IV

Jason Fabok: Art

Peter Steigerwald: Colors

 

     DC's latest Batman Annual features a story in which Batman fights his well-known supervillain foe Mister Freeze.  The plot also connects somewhat with the ongoing Night Of The Owls event that concludes in the regular monthly issue #11 reviewed above.    Scott Snyder writes this story in partnership with James Tynion IV, with art by Jason Fabok and colors by Peter Steigerwald.

 

    The story in this Annual issue, entitled "Night Of The Owls-First Snow," is bracketed front and end with flashbacks to an event in Mr. Freeze's childhood during a snowy winter in Lincoln, Nebraska.  The bulk of the tale consists of a traditional-style confrontation between Freeze and The Caped Crusader.  After an extended thriller scene in which our villain escapes from the infamous Arkham Asylum, Freeze has an even lengthier confrontation with Batman, Nightwing and the bratty Damien version of Robin.  The goal of Freeze's effort is to seize from control from Bruce Wayne of the frozen body of Freeze's terminally ill wife Nora so she can be thawed, cured and restored to life with an antidote that Freeze initially developed for The Court of Owls.  I don't want to be a story spoiler and reveal how this plan concludes, beyond mentioning that there's a very interesting surprise plot twist that concludes the storyline.  The Annual plotline wraps-up with a two-page return to the childhood flashback that began the story, also providing an unexpected plot twist to the backstory segment of the tale.

 

     The creative team does an excellent job of providing us with a feature-length annual story that works well on three counts.  First, we're treated to a solid story addition to the long-running set of tales featuring Batman's battles with one of his more traditional foes.  There's even a brief appearance by The Penguin in the midst of this situation that adds an additional nice retro flair to the story.  Secondly, the art team's style and coloring is pitch perfect for portraying the impact of Batman's cold warrior foe.  I actually felt cold reading some of the more visually frosty scenes in this issue.  And third but hardly least, the writing team's surprise plot twist is both unexpected and among the best story surprises that I've read in any comic book over the past few years.  I actually fell for the deliberate writer's trap of sympathizing for Freeze's longing for his lost wife while wondering why Bruce Wayne was seemingly in the wrong in this scenario, until the plot twist revealed the true meaning of the storyline.

 

     So another worthy thumbs-up recommendation is due for this new issue comic book that succeeds on three counts: providing an entertaining Batman tale, presenting top-notch graphic visuals and perhaps most importantly, giving us all a chilled Mr. Freeze feel that we could all use in the middle of The Great Heatwave of 2012!

 

Sunset: First Look

Publisher: Image Comics/Top Cow Productions, Inc.

Christos Gage: Writer

Jorge Lucas: Art

     Image Comics and Top Cow Productions have just published a comic issue offering a first look at a portion of a new graphic novel entitled "Sunset."  The creator-owned production is written by Christos Gage with art by Jorge Lucas.  For the affordable price of $1.00, the comic book apparently presents the first 22 pages of a book-length tale that is also currently available in original hardcover format.

     The plot centers on Nick Bellamy, a California retiree who, together with his housekeeper, cares for his apparently Altzeimer-afflicted aged wife.  The stoic Nick clearly sees society as having declined in civility, as on a trip to the local supermarket he encounters several crass and extremely rude younger folk.  Nick's errand is interrupted by three mobsters who confront him to collect money that he supposedly took from their boss decades earlier.  The story explodes into a slaughterfest, as Nick kills his attackers in an unexpected display of sharp reflexes and visciousness, then returns home to slaughter more bad guys who had killed his wife and the housekeeper while waiting for Nick's return.  The preview issue concludes with Nick torching his house and setting-off to confront the mobster responsible for the attack.

     I was not entertained by this comic book, for a few reasons.  First, in characterization and story concept, Sunset is a carbon copy of the acclaimed 2008 movie "Grand Torino," which starred Clint Eastwood as an aged loner in a very similar life circumstance, i.e., American society has declined to sucky incivility and only one senior citizen continues to comport himself with personal grace and dignity.  Secondly, after viewing the high quality of the Eastwood film, its jarring to see the same tale painted-over with heavy layers of blood and gore.  And third, the black-and-white art combined with Jorge Lucas's particular graphic style is a very uncomfortable viewing experience.  It didn't take long for me to dread turning the page to continue squinting at this difficult visual presentation.

     I'm a huge fan of Worcester native Chris Gage's prolific and high quality comic book scripting, particularly his excellent work at Marvel.  But while Gage's scripting here is professional and strong, the negatives outlined above tip the balance in this instance into a negative review recommendation.  If you're a fan of Gage's work in general, feel free to add this comic book and/or the accompanying graphic novel to your collection as another example of his body of work.  But if you're just looking for a stand-alone, summertime thriller or noir-style comic book read, I'd recommend searching further along the new issues shelves for another title.

The Massive #2

Publisher: Dark Horse Comics

Brian Wood: Writer

Kristian Donaldson: Art

Dave Stewart: Colors

     Dark Horse Comics is in the middle of publishing a three-issue premier story arc for a new science fiction series entitled The Massive.  The series follows the dramatic struggles of a band of seafaring environmentalists struggling to survive in a post-crash world.  Issue #1 kicks-off the three-part story entitled "Landfall," establishing the concept that the global environment and world social order has collapsed following a series of unexplained environmental mega-disasters.  The Ninth Wave oceanic activist group is patrolling the Bering Strait searching for their lost sister ship called The Massive when they're attacked by Siberian pirates.  Sub-plots established in issue #1 included the pirate attack and mysteries surrounding both the fate of The Massive and the cause of the world-wide collapse.  The series is scripted by Brian Wood with art by Kristian Donaldson and colors by Dave Stewart.

     Issue #2 advances the plot in three alternating storythreads.  A new subplot focuses on the struggles of The Ninth Wave activists one year ago at the start of the world-wide collapse.  Group leader Israel Callum leads the battered team into Hong Kong harbor in search of fuel and supplies within the partly-submerged city.  Action ensues as the team has a deadly confrontation with local residents struggling to establish a new social order.  The additional two subplots continue story elements from issue #1, further progressing the Siberian pirate confrontation and the slow revealing of the details of the world-wide collapse.  By issue's end, the crew has discovered a bit more about the origins of the pirate attack, while a few of the environmentalists begin crossing the Bering Strait to seek help in what's left of Alaska.

     This is a suspenseful and entertaining sci-fi adventure series that works well for several reasons.  The best thing that this series has going for it is the strong writing skills of A-list scripter Brian Woods.  Woods avoids the easy trap of environmental preachiness, using the main event of worldwide collapse as an always close backdrop while he focuses on unfolding a traditional thriller adventure tale.  His cast of characters are diverse and well-rounded, from group leader Israel Callum through the main and supporting cast members.  I particularly enjoyed the air of mystery saturating this tale; at every twist and turn there are one or more mysteries thrown at the reader, from the origins of the world disaster to the mystery of the missing ship, all the way down to the vague personal backgrounds and hidden secrets of just about every crew member.

     There's a lot of engrossing entertainment in the first two issues of this series, so much so that I'm wondering how the creative team is going to give us any sense of story arc completeness with only one more monthly issue remaining in this brief kick-off three-part story arc.  But in the hands of this skilled creative team, I'm confident that the initial story conclusion in next month's issue #3 will establish enough goings-on to carry this title into worthwhile additional monthly story adventures.  So get on down to That's Entertainment and add this very enjoyable science fiction adventure series to your always-growing summertime new issues reading pile!

Contest Winner Announcement!!!

      Our latest contest challenged you to correctly identify the few players in Major League Baseball history who have actually played all nine (9) field positions in only one game.  And our contest winner is (drumroll, please)...Ray Loughlin III, who correctly identified the five following players who have achieved the rare feat: Bert Campaneris (A's, 1965), Cesar Tovar (Twins, 1968), Jose Oquendo (Cardinals, 1988), Scott Shelden (Rangers, 2000) and Shane Halter (Tigers, 2000).  Congratulations to Ray, who wins our first prize $10.00 gift certificate to That's Entertainment!!!

New Contest Challenge Announcement!!!

     Since we're in the middle of the baseball season, let's stick with baseball for our new contest.  Our latest contest challenge is an off-beat Red Sox trivia question suggested by Ray Loughlin, Jr., father of our contest winner above.  Your new challenge is to e-mail us at Gordon_A@msn.com no later than Wednesday, August 8 listing as many Red Sox players as you can find in the history of the team whose last name is the same as a Massachusetts city or town.  Whoever correctly lists the most players in this category will win our first prize $10.00 gift certificate to That's Entertainment.  In the event of multiple entries of lists with the same number of correct players, the winner will be selected from among those entries via a roll of the dice.  Please note that our first prize $10.00 gift certificate to That's Entertainment is redeemable for regular retail merchandise or in-store ongoing specials, only.

     That's all for now, so have two great 2012 London Olympics-watching and comic book reading weeks and see you again on Friday, August 10 Here In Bongo Congo!

Comic Reviews 7/13/12

Here In Bongo Congo

     Good King Leonardo has decreed that we kick-off this week's column with a review of a new nonfiction book on the current status of the comic book industry, followed by reviews of three new comic book titles.  So let's get right to our reading material and see what these new publications are all about:

 

 

Comic-Con And The Business Of Pop Culture

Publisher: McGraw Hill

Rob Salkowitz: Author

 

    McGraw Hill has just published a new non-fiction book that examines both the flagship San Diego Comic-Con and the wider issue of the future of comic books within the ever-changing world of the global multimedia entertainment system.  The investigation is authored by Rob Salkowitz, a self-confessed 40-something comic fanboy who also happens to be an experienced business technology consultant, futurist and instructor in the Digital Media program at the University of Washington.

 

     Even non-fanboys and fangirls are aware of the rise of comics in the past generation to a lucrative position at the center of American popular culture.  Salkowitz begins his investigation by initially charting that ascension, centering upon the evolution of San Diego Comic-Con from a small 1970 funny book show to today's multi-media Hollywood extravaganza that attracts at least 130,000 attendees every July for a four-day mega-media blitz. The story quickly shifts to the July 2011 Comic-Con, in which Salkowitz and his fellow fan wife Eunice immerse themselves in the San Diego transmedia experience that crossconnects and ultimately dwarfs the traditional comic book industry with all forms of modern-day technological visual delivery at a global scale.

 

     Its a dizzying trip through Comic-Con, as Salkowitz deftly lays-out the complexity, depth and color of an industry that on the one hand has exploded with Hollywood corporate commitment and funding while on the opposite extreme experiences ever more balkanization and confusing fragmentation, as new technologies accelerate such trends as hands-on fan involvement, print-on-demand production and creator-owned properties that all jostle for attention and ultimate domination of the comics industry.

 

     However, the theme of the book isn't Comic-Con in and of itself, but rather how the San Diego experience encapsulates the bigger struggles occuring in 2012 for the heart and soul of the general comics-related entertainment industry.  Such megatrends as Hollywood embracing big-budget comic movie productions and digital comic book downloading have moved comics into what Salkowitz calls the world of "transmedia."  As such, in the transmedia environment, the traditional Batman comic book is now interlinked with Batman movies, animated t.v. shows, digital downloads, fan-based creative endeavors and of course video games, such as the "Lego Batman 2" game which received a positive review just this morning in my local town newspaper.  The result is a dizzying choice of ever-changing entertainment options, all of which accelerate the decline of the traditional back issue comic-collecting hobby as well as a nationwide plummeting of sales for monthly new issue, traditional print comic books.

 

     The strength of this investigation is two-fold.  First, we're treated to many interesting facts about how we got to the current crossroads in the comics industry as well as facts regarding the current state of the genre.  My favorite nugget culled from this information category is a fascinating explanation of how the comic book publishing industry back in the 1980's completely ruined the "training," so to speak, of comics reading within the general populace by abandoning traditional pharmacy sales in order to sole-source sales through emerging speciality comics shops.  This lessening of common retail outlets offering comics took parental purchase power out of the sales picture, as parents were more inclined to buy their youngsters comics during routine family shopping excursions as opposed to going out of their way to visit the unfamiliar new concept of specialty shops.

 

     Secondly and more importantly, Salkowitz brings his professional corporate analysis skills to bear in analyzing the comics industry's future place in the ever-expanding transmedia world.  Using the management technique of scenario planning, he postulates four potential future paths for the health of the comics industry.  Creatively labeling these scenarios as Endless Summer, Infinite Crisis, The Expanding Multiverse and Ghost World, these hypothetical futures range from positive comics expansion into the new transmedia alternatives to negative decline into a niche specialty hobby on par with antiquing or poetry reading.  Salkowitz emphasizes that no one scenario will be predictive of the true future, but rather elements of two or more of these alternatives will likely blend into a true future reality for the industry.

 

     Beyond the obvious conclusion that this book is a fun and entertaining read for all of comic fandom, this is an important book in many respects; similar to its subject matter, Salkowitz's investigation transcends the niche of comicdom, interconnecting our fun hobby with wider societal and popular culture issues.  There are very valuable lessons offered here on understanding such interconnected subjects as the global economy, ever-accelerating advances in popular technology and communication, mass media and the traditional genres of art and creativity.  "Comic Con And The Business Of Pop Culture" itself even transcends traditional publishing sales categories, with its subject matter making it a worthy and valuable addition to reading lists on corporate management, futurism and sociology.  The book breaks new ground in our understanding of the overdrive characterizing today's popular culture and as such deserves to be at the very top of any recommended reading list, from summer reading to management references to academic reading lists.

 

     So take advantage of the various methodologies explored in the book: whether by traditional bookstore or internet purchase, whether in traditional print format or Kindle/I-Pad/Whatever, by all means purchase and read a copy of this groundbreaking work that illuminates all that is happening right now in the fast-paced and ever-shifting world of American and global popular culture.

 

 

Atomic Robo #1 (Volume 7)

Publisher: Red 5 Comics

Brian Clevinger: Writer

Scott Wegener: Art

Nick Filardi: Colors

     Everyone's favorite sentient robot is back this month with the premier issue #1 in Volume 7 of Atomic Robo, published by Red 5 Comics.  For the uninitiated, Atomic Robo was created in 1923 by Thomas Edison's inventor rival Nichola Tesla.  As the genius head of Tesladyne research corporation, Robo has globespanning science/explorer/thriller adventures.  The extremely popular series is well-known for three elements: dry wit/tongue-in-cheek humor, the clever story element of setting each 5-issue story volume in a different post-1920's historical era and the sporadic appearance of Dr. Dinosaur, one of the more entertaining idiot villains in current comic book publishing.  Atomic Robo is the creation of writer Brian Clevinger, artist Scott Wegener and colorist Nick Filardi.

     The new multi-issue story arc is entitled "The Flying She-Devils Of The Pacific."  Set in 1951, the issue #1 plot unfolds in three acts.  Act One is an extended fight scene; as Robo tests an early jetfighter prototype, he stumbles into an airbattle between two groups of high tech air combatants.  Act Two unfolds after Robo is shot-down and rescued by one side from the battle.  The premise unfolds that the rescuers are a group of former South Pacific female WW II Allied soldiers who went AWOL after the war, apparently continuing combat against a similar group of Japanese deserters.  Everyone's using high tech weaponry designed by a few eccentric inventors affiliated with each side of the fight.  Act Three focuses on the Japanese side of the secret war, as in a bridge to next month's issue #2 story segment, the Japanese forces successfully complete phase one of a new strategy to finally win the 6-year-long post-WW II conflict.

     I'm an unabashed major fan of all things Atomic Robo, from the artwork to the humor to the highly entertaining personalities of Robo and his regular support characters, so its doubtful that I would stray from heaping high praise on any new issue of this title.  However, there are a few story elements within Volume 7 that differentiate the current storyline from the previous story volumes and are worth noting.  First-up is a deeper layer of story detail and dialogue than found in previous Robo issues.  I've been frustrated at times by the quickness of earlier Robo tales, fast-paced with minimal story narrative and dialogue.  There's a lot more story meat in this issue, giving the reader the feel of almost two story segments in one issue.  A second element worth noting is the plot premise itself.  Hats-off is due to writer Brian Clevinger for coming-up with a very fresh and unique WW II spin-off storyline.  There's a fun science fiction feel to the story concept of a secret WW II conflict continuing in the South Pacific for years after the real-world 1945 end of the war.  It should be fun to see where this fictional history takes us in upcoming story segments.

     Our third interesting story element is an emphasis on strong female characters carrying the storyline.  Atomic Robo has always been a comic title that features strong women, whether they're brilliant Tesladyne scientists or fellow adventurers who rescue Robo and save the day as much as their male counterparts.  This story element is featured even more front-and-center in this tale, with issue #1 introducing some very entertaining individual women characters who together comprise the all-female Allied fighting forces against the seemingly all-male Japanese military forces.  These three story elements combine with the usual high quality of this title to produce the most entertaining volume yet of this remarkable and just-plain-fun comic book adventure series.  So an obvious thumbs-up positive review recommendation to get onboard with issue #1 of this latest Robo volume and while you're at it, check-out the back issues and graphic reprint compilations of the first six volumes, all available at That's Entertainment!

Winter Soldier #7

Publisher: Marvel Comics

Ed Brubaker: Writer

Michael Lark: Pencils

Brian Theis & Stefano Gaudiano: Inks

Bettie Breitweiser: Colors

     Marvel Comics is currently up to issue #7 of its Winter Soldier title.  As all Good Marvel Readers know, the Winter Soldier is a current-day persona of Captain America's sidekick James "Bucky" Barnes, who was revived by Soviet agents after his initial WWII death and brainwashed to serve as a Cold War Soviet assassin.  These days, a memory-restored Bucky/Winter Soldier has espionage adventures working with his sidekick the Black Widow/Natasha Romanov in coordination with U.S. spy services.  This comic book title is currently scripted by A-list writer Ed Brubaker with pencils by Michael Lark, inks by Brian Theis and Stefano Gaudiano, and colors by Bettie Breitweiser.

     Issue #7 is part two of a multi-issue story arc entitled "Broken Arrow."  A page one narrative summarizes the story so far, explaining that rogue former Soviet agent Leonid Novokov whom Bucky had mentored in his bad old days is on the attack, killing former stand-ins of the Winter Soldier on order to flush Bucky out into an open confrontation.  In the first half of the issue, our duo, in partnership with CIA Agent Sitwell, follow Novokov's trail of carnage as he kidnaps an American research scientist.  When the Black Widow discovers a secret past of the scientist relevant to her own personal history, the action ramps-up in the second part of the tale, as the good guys conduct a fast-paced raid on the suspected location of their prey.  After a dramatic car chase, the story segment ends in a cliffhanger to issue #8, as Novokov both springs a trap and reveals an unexpected motive for his actions.

     This is a very entertaining non-mega event comic book, of the high quality that I've come to expect from comics creator Ed Brubaker.  In many ways, Brubaker is the legimate Marvel heir to the late, great Gene Colan, consistently delivering serious thriller stories that blend real world situations with various Marvel hero characters in a visually-pleasing cinematic graphic style.  Reading this comic book is a visual experience akin to watching an entertaining television or movie spy thriller.  While the entire creative team deserves credit, a particular shout-out is due to colorist Bettie Breitweiser, whose color pallette and shadings are pitch perfect for the tone of this style of spy adventure.

     Again, I don't want to be a spoilsport and reveal any specifics, but there's a host of entertaining twists and plot surprises scattered throughout this issue.  Those story gems, combined with the writing and artwork quality detailed above, ultimately mix together to produce a very satisfying hero/thriller adventure tale.  So yet another positive thumbs-up review recommendation to definitely include this enjoyable comic book in your ever-growing pile of summertime new comic books.

The Tick #100: The Tick Meets Invincible

Publisher: New England Comics Press

Benito Cereno: Writer

Les McClaine: Art

     There's an issue #100 special edition of The Tick currently on the new issues shelves.  Many fans are no doubt aware of the colorful background story to the origin of this popular character.  The Tick was created by 18-year-old Ben Edlund in 1986 as a newsletter mascot for Norwood-based New England Comics.  When Edland further produced a few black-and-white issues for the comic shop, the character took-off huge, eventually going national and crossing genres from nationwide comic book sales to a three-season Fox network animated series, culminating with a short-lived 2001 live-action Fox series starring well-known comic actor Patrick Warburton in the title role.  The Tick is an iconic parody of superhero comics, with our good-hearted oddball hero fighting crime to the sound of his nonsensical battle cry of "Spoon!"  Issue #100 is written by Benito Cereno with art by Les McClaine.

     The issue #100 story is entitled "Nigh-Invincible" and co-stars the Robert Kirkman/Cory Walker-created superhero Invincible.  The goofy plot kicks-off with a local turf war breaking-out between rival villain gangs respectively led by Tick perennial villain Chairface and Martin Of Mars, a new villain leader in Town.  When Martin uses a weapon to pull Invincible to our timeline from an alternate reality, its up to the new dynamic duo, assisted by Tick's regular cast of sidekicks, to take-on the new baddie and his gang of blob creatures.  When Martin of Mars accidentally kills the Tick's best buddy Arthur, our hero goes nuts, following Martin back to Mars and with the assistance of Invincible, dispatching the villain in a wacky and mega-scale way.  The issue ends with a surprise twist that will surely lead to the happy return to life of Arthur in the next Tick issue.

     I was quickly won over to this highly entertaining and funny comic book for a few reasons, the first being the top notch humor and storytelling.  The current creative team of writer Benito Cereno and artist Les McClaine just plainly know what they're doing, producing a sharp superhero parody that transcends the regional publishing roots of this title, placing the Tick on par with the best of the funny stuff out there in the wide world of comic book publishing.  A second shout-out is due for the quality of the parody details; in addition to the basic funniness, there's an effective element of superhero satire throughout the issue.  My favorite item in this category is the persona of Martin The Martian, who's clearly a buffed tribute to the pint-sized Martian featured in many classic Bugs Bunny cartoons.  He even delivers the familiar "this makes me angry, very angry indeed..." line from those classic Bugs/Martian confrontations.

     A third tip-of-the-review-hat is deserved for the filler material that follows the 24-page main story.  This oversized anniversary issue is stuffed with articles, columns, previous cover reproductions and sketch/panel reprints well-worth the bargain $6.99 issue price.  My favorite bit of anniversary news gleaned from this material is the dual confession of writer Cereno and publisher George Suarez that this isn't really a 100th anniversary issue!  When one adds-up all of the previous tick issues under various title runs, there's slightly over 100, but what the heck, since there are "at least 99 issues of The Tick prior to this one," why not throw a summertime party and crown the latest issue with the official 100th title designation as the centerpiece for a mid-summer celebration!  That's a wacky philosophy that you gotta love and only adds to the campiness and humor of this Tick special edition.  So by all means, load-up on some summertime laughs with this enjoyable riff on superheroing starring our likeable hero buddy from nearby Norton, Massachusetts!

Contest Winner Announcement!!!

     Our latest contest challenge was for you to pitch to us your favorite current television series within the science fiction/fantasy/horror genre.  The Bongo Congo Panel of Contest Judges received several fine and worthy series nominations, all of which are interesting shows within the genre.  And our winner is (drumroll, please)...Stan Hosmer, who wins with his nomination of Doctor Who as his favorite science fiction t.v. series.  Stan explains that he loves the backstory, the rotating cast of companions and imaginative creatures/villains and how the main character manages to remain a mystery in many ways.  He also admires the fantastic way that the show's creators cover for themselves when whenever there's a substitution of the actor who plays the character of Dr. Who himself.

     For those of you unfamiliar with the show, the series began in 1963 and is the longest-running science fiction television show in the world.  The role of the Doctor has been played by 11 different actors over the years, with the change in person cleverly explained as the good Doctor "regenerating" himself with new features and a new personality.  Congratulations to Stan who wins our first prize $10.00 gift certificate to That's Entertainment!

New Contest Challenge Announcement!!!

     Given that we're in the dog days of summer baseball with our Red Sox mired at the bottom of the AL East Division, the Bongo Congo Panel of Contest Judges has decided to try and cheer-up fans with a baseball trivia contest.  Your challenge is to e-mail us at Gordon_A@msn.com no later than Wednesday, July 25 with the answer to the following question: What are the names of the few Major League Baseball players who have actually played all nine field positions in the course of one game (that includes pitcher and catcher!).  Believe it or not, the situation has occurred more than one time.  As always, in the event of multiple correct entries, our contest winner will be chosen via a roll of the dice.  Please note that our first prize $10.00 gift certificate to That's Entertainment is redeemable for regular retail merchandise or in-store ongoing specials, only.

     That's all for now, so have two great summertime weather and comic book reading weeks and see you again on Friday, July 27 Here In Bongo Congo!