Comic Book Review: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (IDW, Free Comic Book Day 2017)

Story: Kevin Eastman, Bobby Curnow & Tom Waltz
Script: Tom Waltz
Art (Including Cover): Cory Smith
Colors: Ronda Pattison
Letters: Shawn Lee

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have been kicking around since I was a kid. To see them as a still-relevant group warms my heart. My daughter is over three decades younger than me and loves the old movies as much as I did back in 1990. One of the best things about FCBD editions of titles is that they introduce new readers and new generations to classic characters. I have to say, this issue does a fine job of that.

As we start, our half-shelled heroes, sans Donatello, are involved in a training mission down in the sewers. As each turtle gets zapped by a laser, they make fun of each other with the senses of humor we're used to. When they get back to their lair, they're greeted by Don and a small golden robot named Professor Honeycutt. The group reminisces about the last time they met up, and they go through moments they've had facing a variety of villains, which nicely introduces new readers to their storied history. The last they discuss is an attack by General Krang, which ended with his arrest. Honeycutt is one of five key witnesses in the trial that could put him away for a long time.

In true Maskerpiece fashion, a set of tentacles drops from the ceiling and shuts down the power. They drop again to snatch Honeycutt, and the battle begins. The culprit in a bounty hunter named Hakk-R, and before his escape, he downloads the names of the other witnesses from Honeycutt's database. This sends the turtles on a quest to Dimension X.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Tentacles!

While this is just a teaser leading to TMNT #73 and TMNT: Dimension X, it's short, sweet, and fun. It does make you want to dig into more of the story on Krang's capture and the crimes that led to it as well as the upcoming hunt for Hakk-R.

The artwork by Cory Smith has a modern/classic hybrid feel to it, and his cover is beautiful. The colors by Ronda Pattison keep the sewer dark and the characters light, making an eye catching contrast. I enjoyed this fun little battle, and I think it'll be a great way to get younger kids into the pizza loving mutants.

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Uncanny Inhumans - #4 - Comic Book Review

Uncanny Inhumans - #4 - Marvel

Written By: Charles Soule

Art By: McNiven, Leisten & Gho

Kang the Conqueror has travelled back in time to get the aid of the Attilan King, Randac, some 13,000 years ago. While Ahura is experiencing his transformation from the Terrigin Mist Blackbolt, Medusa and team arrive to inform their son what Kang has in store for their people, the Inhumans. Kang returns from his time travels and a battle begins but this battle is short lived as Ahura shows everyone his new powers and the devastating impact they potentially could have on people. 

This was a quick read. The issue closes the chapter on the story arc up to this point. The dialogue is concise and to the point which was nice. This issue wastes no time, gets right to the action and then ends. There was a fun awkward moment when Ahura asks Johnny Storm, aka the Human Torch, why he’s there when it’s a familiar affair dealing with Kang and the future of the Inhumans. I did enjoy a chuckle reading that page. 

The art work in this issue was great. The colors used during the pages detailing the battle were vivid and exciting. It’s done so well I could hear the explosions, lasers and more in my head while reading. Overall, the art work was a nice addition to the story creating a believable world for this story to take place in.

Overall, this was a job well done. I’m enjoying my time reading stories with the Inhumans. These characters have a different perspective on life as they are royalty and it’s that fact which makes the stories and the perspective of events so intriguing. 

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New Romancer - Issue #2 - Comic Book Review

New Romancer - #2 - Vertigo

Written By: Peter Milligan

Art By: Brett Parson and Brian Miller

Casanova and his band of lunatics have discovered a way to continue their new way of “life” while New Romancer has a successful dating story from one of their clients. Lex is all smiles as the dating algorithm has proven one successful tale and as Valentines day approaches the number of requests on New Romancer is increasing. Lex is convinced that Byron will be the key to making this site a success but nothing ever goes as smoothly as one hopes or plans. Especially when a psychotic Casanova is hot on your trail and your competitors are trying to stop Byron before he starts.

The issue provides more insight into what a maniac Casanova is. The pages that had him and his team of psychos were my favorite part of this issue. This character is certified crazy and that’s awesome. The continued world building that is occurring with Lex and her team was written well to develop the unique personalities each character has in this story. The attention to character is splendid. The opening pages provide the story of the blind date that was a success and even those ancillary characters had their own special something. Overall, Peter is creating a story that continues to entertain and delight. 

The art work continues to make my eyes smile, if that’s a possible thing. The expressions on the faces of each character puts tone right into my imagination as I hear the voices I assume would go with these characters. It’s fantastic. If the character is shocked, upset, confused, nervous, crazy or melancholy you can see it, accurately, on these pages. Parson and Miller did such great work to capture the emotions of these characters on each page. 

Overall, job well done. The characters are coming into their own, the story is becoming something special and I continue to look forward to more readings. The market is oversaturated with rehashed characters in familiar situations and the “New Romancer” stands apart as a fresh concept on modern life, dating, the internet and relationships. It even provides a few laughs along the way. Check it out at comic book stores near you, now… assuming they’re open at the hours you read this. 

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Jughead - Issue 2 - Comic Book Review

Jughead - #2 - Archie

Written By: Chip Zdartsky

Art By: Erica Henderson

Jughead and the kids at Riverdale High are having trouble adjusting to the new principle and his teaching staff. Detention seems to be the common theme for each student who can’t adhere to the whims of each teacher. Jughead decides that in order to avoid detention he will have to bend the rules to fit his needs but the new principle has other ideas for Jughead which have long lasting, negative, effects. 

The story in the second issue was more enjoyable than issue 1 for me. I’m enjoying the characters who have more developed characteristics. The theme is established as well this month that the new principle of Riverdale is a curious case, bordering maniacal. There are some great lines about bending rules not breaking them in this issue as well. Jughead is developed and after two issues it feels like a piece of his character will be the focal point to highlight each story. 

The art work continues to entertain as the colors adjust to create mood. The characters faces are drawn in such a way the emotions experienced are visually noticeable also. Henderson is starting to shape and mold this new world in ways that feel natural, not forced. Even the section of the story dealing with time travel looked unique. 

Another fun issue that’s for all ages. I wouldn’t be surprised to find out parents are buying this to read to their kids as part of a family bonding time. It entertains on multiple levels and is family friendly. Good times with Jughead, Archie and the crew at Riverdale High School. 

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Scarlet Witch - Issue 2 - Comic Book Review

Scarlet Witch - #2 - Marvel

Written By: James Robinson

Art By: Marco Rudy

Wanda is still searching for answers regarding the mysterious feeling she has that witch crafts energies feel broken. Her investigation takes her to Santorini Greece where she seeks the wisdom of the goddess Hekate. It’s revealed that the force plaguing the city at night is an ancient Minotaur that is cloaked in magic. Wanda agrees to stop this mythological beast and Hakate will owe her a favor for the help. All is not revealed and more questions begin to surface for the Scarlet Witch as she discovers that magic has its cost and someone always has to pay the price. 

Two issues in and this series is incredible. The story, the characters and holy goodness the art work. I had no clue when I spontaneously chose to read the first issue last month what enjoyment I would get reading this series. I’m very pleased that I have this title in my pull box at one of the local comic stores I frequent. 

There isn’t a strong flow regarding the story yet and I believe that it’s intentional. I don’t feel James Robinson is trying to figure this story out as he writes. I do feel that he is writing this story so we, the readers, get a sense of the story at the same pace as the protagonist, Wanda Maximoff. I could be wrong but I am trusting that after a few issues this story will tie together and flow as beautifully as the art on each page of these two issues. I’m enjoying the characters and the unpredictable appearances of Agatha are priceless. 

I really can’t say enough about the art work in this issue. Marco Rudy is pure talent. Every page looks like an oil painting that deserves to be hung on walls in art museums for a popular culture section. I took a photo of one page and sent it to the Masterpiece Theatre contributors because I was enthralled with its look, color and design. It’s the image below. Go read this series!

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Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. - Issue 1 - Comic Book Review

Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. - #1 - Marvel

Written By: Marc Guggenheim

Art By: German Peralta & Rachelle Rosenberg

Stolen Stark Tech has busted into the Department of Defense and stolen something very valuable to anyone with a vengeance towards super hero’s. Tony Stark and Agent May are discussing the matter while Coulson and team are interrogating an A.I.M. splinter cell. After some discussion it’s revealed that Coulson might have a contact who can help them but it won’t be an easy sell and what he finds out won’t be easily understood. 

The is the first issue for the new launch of this series. I enjoyed the previous series and this revamped title did not disappoint. While I do not care for the show, I do enjoy the characters in this setting. The fantastic four tie in was a nice touch. I enjoyed how this series connected to the new “Invincible Iron Man” series also. While I did enjoy the previous run, it did feel a bit isolated because it didn’t connect to any stories currently in progress. They used the characters, sure, but no official storyline connectors. This first issue appears to have corrected that.

I enjoyed the overall story and it did well to highlight the different characters and the role they play within the team. The issue ends with a twist but there’s other stories occurring with the characters that also had a twist or surprise finish. Once again, the comic book is more entertaining and better written than the show in my opinion. I was a monthly reader of the previous series and it feels like this all new all different run will keep me reading every month. 

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Silver Surfer - Issue 1 - Comic Book Review

Silver Surfer - #1 - Marvel

Written By: Dan Slott & Michael Allred

Art By: Laura Allred

Silver Surfer and Dawn are interrupting a transmission from space that is from an alien race, the Hordax, who are claiming rule over the earth. While the Surfer fights off the aliens in their ship Dawn uses the time to tell her family she is headed back to earth in 3 days. Shortly after arriving on Earth the books, art, music, television shows and movies are all suddenly being stolen into space. Dawn and the Silver Surfer race to space and discover the Hordax are behind it all. Things are not as they appear and a greater threat looms in the distance with a familiar face who is familiar with space travel and battle.

This was a fun issue. Some of the moments were silly and humorous which made this comic an entertaining treat. The dialogue didn’t require too much from the reader which was also nice. This issue was a quick, enjoyable read. 

The art work was vibrant and unique, in a good way. The colors in this issue all pop and the characters all have their own look except for Dawn and her twin sister. They even had one or two major differences in appearance too. This issue felt like I gave my eyes visual candy. This was an exciting look that was creative and felt original. 

Overall, I’m not sure if I’ll continue reading the series but it was a fun break from some of the more intense stories I read. If you’re looking for something that is stunning and electric in appearance this is a great comic for you. If you enjoy a quick, fun, read then again this is for you. It reads well and the art is a delight. 

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Jughead - Issue 1 - Comic book Review

Jughead - #1 - Archie Comics

Written By: Chip Zdarsky

Art By: Erica Henderson

Jughead is lazily playing a video game in which he is slaying every other character with his sword. Time passes and Archie arrives to take Jughead to school. After arriving at Riverdale High, the new principle appears and Jughead must decide how to overcome the obstacle that keeps him from his one true love, food. 

This comic didn’t lose any of the wholesome goodness that is an “Archie” comic. In a world filled with adult themes, suggestive language and graphic art work this comic harkened back to a time of innocence and simplicity. The story read similar to teen age comedies like the movies “American Pie,” “Can’t Hardly Wait” or “Superbad”.  The major difference being this comic uses language a child could enjoy without the parents worrying themes present might be inappropriate for kids. 

The art work in this issue feels appropriate for the story as well. After Jughead passes out the story departs reality and heads to medieval times and then back to reality once he comes to. The dragon was a particularly enjoyable touch in this issue. I love dragons though, so I’m biased towards them being more visible in stories. If you enjoy dragons you’ll appreciate the cameo one makes in this issue.

Overall, I would say that if you are looking for a comic book that is for all ages with a fun story that isn’t inappropriate, this is a good issue. It’s entertaining and well drawn. Also, if you’re a fan of Archie comics then you should definitely pick this up. 

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Invincible Iron Man - Issue 5 - Comic Book Review

Invincible Iron Man - #5 - Marvel

Written By: Brian Michael Bendis

Art By: David Marquez and Justin Ponsor

Iron Man and Doctor Doom are engaged in a battle of combined science and magic as Madam Masque attempts to kill them both. A sudden surprise attack by Mary Jane Watson turns the tide of battle in favor of Iron Man and Doom. After creative, collaborative and intelligent tactics combined Madam Masque is stopped and Doctor Strange arrives to carry her off to be healed and handed over to SHIELD. Tony offers Mary Jane Watson a job at Stark Industry and the decision to move from Chicago back to New York must be made, soon.

If the series finished with this issue I would be satisfied as a reader. The 5 issues written so far have been creatively, artistically and intelligently crafted. Doctor Doom and Iron Man fighting side-by-side to stop Madam Masque was a visual treat. Hearing the A.I. Friday reminding Tony he keeps monologuing to villains and then Doom telling Tony he’s talking to much was hilarious in these issues. 

This issue didn’t really add much to the story however it felt like it wrapped up one chapter nicely. We still don’t know what Doctor Doom is up to or why he is able to appear as he does. Doctor Strange has provided a curious theory but even the Doctor acknowledges that Doom is powerful enough to hide his intentions from him. This issue literally feels like the next issue will be a new mystical or demonic struggle and Doom will be waiting for the right time to appear. Hopefully, Iron Man returns to being the Futurist he knows he can be. Fingers crossed Doctor Strange is never too far away either. 

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Invincible Iron Man - Issue 4 - Comic Book Review

Invincible Iron Man - #4 - Marvel

Written By: Brian Michael Bendis

Art By: David Marquez and Justin Ponsor

Iron Man is battling a group of ninja’s who have unrecognizable tech and lethal intentions. The battle rages on at Marina Del Ray California at night on the beach. Iron Man eventually figures out the appropriate measures to solve this conflict but it ends with a surprising twist. A short while later, Tony is visiting the children’s hospital when a surprise visit from Doctor Doom interrupts the event. The two are off to Chicago to stop Madam Masque when we see the night club they arrive at is owned by one well known Marvel sweetheart. 

The high tech ninja’s fighting Iron Man with Light Saber looking weapons was fantastic. Additionally, the art showing off the light weapons, the camouflage Iron Man armor and the explosions looked amazing in this issue. The yellows and blues present in the fight scene are mesmerizing. I wonder if it was possible to enjoy the art any more in this issue. 

The dialogue in this issue was entertaining at parts. After the battle on the beach the local authorities arrive to investigate the explosions and fires. The back and forth with Iron Man, the rookie cop and the veteran cop was amusing and gave me a chuckle or two. 

Overall, this issue had some magnificent art to begin the issue. However, this issue felt like a segue issue that was leading into the next one. Instead of being a great issue on it’s own, this one felt like it will be better once I read the fifth issue. I’m still enjoying this new Iron Man series. 

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Invincible Iron Man - Issue 3 - Comic Book Review

Invincible Iron Man - #3 - Marvel

Written By: Brian Michael Bendis

Art By: David Marquez and Justin Ponsor

Iron Man and Madam Masque are battling each other with science and magic. Iron Man’s suit goes into new emergency protocols that change the structure of the fight until Madam Masque disappears. Tony seeks out Doctor Strange for guidance on the magic powers possessed by Doom, Madam Masque and the newly discovered “Wand of Watoomb” from another dimension. The good Doctor locates Madam Masque and Tony is off to stop her, but things don’t turn out how everyone’s favorite Futurist planned…

The action sequence to start this issue was fun. I enjoyed seeing how the new armor Tony built works and functions. Similar to the “Iron Man 3” film we see that Tony can control the suit without being in the armor. The real trick is seeing how it falls apart and comes together. That was pretty spectacular. I am also enjoying the fact the armor changes look and design on a thought or reading of what is necessary for any scenario. This Iron Man suit is pretty incredible. 

The story continued to build on the mystical forces at place. It was great reading a page or two of Tony and Strange discussing recent events and their potential impact on the grander scale of existence. Tony is really starting to embrace his superior intelligence and we keep seeing that he’s not at his full intellectual potential as he is constantly one, if not two, steps behind Madam Masque. 

Overall, another solid issue. The brief section with Doctor Strange was enjoyable and the final pages of this issue increased my interest in this story and the characters. 

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Invincible Iron Man - Issue 2 - Comic Book Review

Invincible Iron Man - #2 - Marvel

Written By: Brian Michael Bendis

Art By: David Marquez and Justin Ponsor

Iron Man and Doctor Doom are discussing current events in Castle Doom, Latvia. Doom is no longer wearing the customary outfit but instead he’s wearing a business suit with a face that no longer requires a mask. Doom is still the powerful scientist and magician and it takes a short squabble before Iron Man realizes that Doom needs him more than he might be comfortable with. Madam Masque continues her treasure hunt and a surprise visit from Tony Stark doesn’t go as planned, for either of them. 

The majority of this issue was back and forth dialogue between Doctor Doom and Iron Man. It was excellent. The character of Doom looks different but sounds familiar. This is a smooth, calculating and determined Doom. He’s not interested in reclaiming his country. He has new goals that only he is aware of. He’s a powerful mystic and the dialogue between Tony and his A.I. Friday was delightful. The realization that Tony might need help from Doctor Strange was a nice touch of flavor to an already fantastic issue. 

This issue gives us some more insight into what Madam Masque is searching for. It also did well to inform us how certain artifacts come to be found on earth and where in the larger universe our planet resides. The art work shows what Tony’s new armor is capable of and how the constant evolution of his armor is necessary for increased threats on his life and the planet. This was another fantastic issue both visually and in exposition. 

Overall, this issue continues to impress. If the next few issues continue building momentum at the pace I’m experiencing this could very well become a phenomenal series. 

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Invincible Iron Man - Issue 1 - Comic Book Review

Invincible Iron Man - #1 - Marvel

Written By: Brian Michael Bendis

Art By: David Marquez and Justin Ponsor

A secret meeting in Beijing doesn’t go as planned for one man looking to start a new life. Madam Masque is on the hunt for particle items and she will stop at nothing to acquire them. Tony Stark has spent more time saving the world then reinventing his armor and he’s now behind the curve and almost late for a date with a brilliant biophysicist from Sri Lanka. After a burglary at Castle Doomstadt, Tony decides to test his new Iron Man armor and discovers that Latveria’s not the same with Doctor Doom not in control, or is he…

The issue starts off with mystery and murder. Immediately I was hooked. The dialogue was used well to explain where this new story is taking place and why Tony Stark is all new and all different. There’s some fun moments of dialogue between Tony and the Biophysicist when she reveals to Tony his reputation as a world renowned womanizer. I got a few laughs out the dialogue and a surprise cameo by another Avenger. This comic read like James Bond film which was a surprising discovery. 

The art in this first issue was spectacular. The use of shadows added incredible texture to the entire issue. When Madam Masque opens the brief case and we see a brilliant light shine upon her face and it’s exactly what I’d expect from a sudden burst of light on a face in a dark room. The detail on Madam Masque’s face was my absolute favorite. There’s one panel that is a close up on her face and the attention to detail was done so well that I fell right into this new world being created. 

Overall, I enjoyed this first issue. I wasn’t sure how much I’d like reading a new Iron Man story but Bendis, Marquez and Ponsor won me over immediately. Job well done. 

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Captain America: White - Issue 5 (Final Issue) - Comic Book Review

Captain America: White - #5 - Marvel

Written By: Jeph Loeb

Art By: Tim Sale

Captain America is racing up the Eiffel Tower on his motorcycle attempting to stop Red Skull from blowing up the tower and killing Bucky, who he holds prisoner. Meanwhile, the French Resistance, Fury and the Howling Commandos are being held prisoner by Baron Von Strucker in the Louvre. Separately, but at the same time, the battles ensue and, as wars go, not everyone makes it out alive. 

The final issue in the series delivered splendidly on everything it was building towards. There were twists throughout this series that each were impacting enough to create a feeling while reading. The twists in this issue were just as powerful. There was even a moment where a character alludes to another popular character in the Captain America mythos. It’s all tied up wonderfully as the final page and the final panel end this Captain America run. 

The conclusion of this series really reinforces the bond and friendship that existed between Cap and Bucky during the 1940’s. It raises the bar on story telling when detailing friendship and commitment to another individual. It even makes my excitement for the movie “Captain America: Civil War” so much more because of my deeper understanding of Cap’s feelings towards his friend Bucky. 

I recommend you take time to enjoy this series. It’s an incredible series and if you wait for it to become available in Trade Paperback I’d understand. However, if you decide to purchase each issue like I did you won’t be disappointed. The issues are available now while the trade probably won’t be for a little while. Such an incredible run on the World War 2 version of Captain America. Plus the artwork is spectacular. The entire series felt like it was a painting. It’s remarkable, unique and visually exciting. I just can’t say enough about how much I enjoyed this series without being overly wordy and possibly repetitive. Go read this series!

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Captain America: White - Issue 4 - Comic Book Review

Captain America: White - #4 - Marvel

Written By: Jeph Loeb

Art By: Tim Sale

The Red Skull is giving a speech attempting to persuade listeners that he is the savior of France. While Captain America, Bucky, Fury, the Howling Commando’s and the new French Resistance team all sit by waiting for the moment to strike. After some time a mole inside the Nazi camp reports plans by Red Skull, Von Strucker and Hitler and a decision is made to stop the plans of Hitler. As it turns out, not everyone agreed to those plans and things don’t turn out as well as the heroes hoped. 

The Red Skull’s monologue was brief but it provided everything to show how twisted his sense of self is. He is a character who knows how to manipulate feelings and provide a sense of twisted logic that any good sociopath or politician would be envious of. 

The character development for the leader of the French resistance team is superb. She is a strong leader who prizes a French victory by France over anything else. She’s intelligent, stunning, calculated and lethal. Additionally, she seems to be Cap’s equal with regard to patriotism and removing the Nazi’s from power for the sake of her people. She doesn’t see the lines as clear as Cap though and that is felt in this issue when she and Cap exchange words and more.

The issue ends with a dynamic twist for all parties and again and I won’t mention what it is. However, it felt appropriate and left me excited to read the conclusion next issue.  

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Captain America: White - Issue 3 -Comic Book Review

Captain America: White - #3 - Marvel

Written By: Jeph Loeb

Art By: Tim Sale

Captain America, Nick Fury, Bucky and the Howling Commandos are in custody of the Nazi’s in France. After some difficulty Cap and team earn their freedom and begin a journey through a snowy France when they are met by a band of gypsies who are more than they appear to be. What awaits them all, however, is more deadly than any single one of them could believe. 

Clever dialogue that reads like film dialogue sounds. I can’t help but hear individual voices in my head reading this issue. It’s incredible. Each character has such a particular voice that it’s developed into more than just a story about Captain America. This is a story about them all and Captain America’s journey along with them. 

The action sequences continue to impress as each panel still continues to look painted. It’s clear what is taking place as well. The art work is crisp, clean and visually delightful. The characters are expressive, the landscape is detailed and colorful and the action is distinct and magnetic. This third issue has developed a world that is ripped from the World War 2 era with such perfection. There’s great enjoyment reading this series so far and I believe that it will continue. 

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Captain America: White - Issue 2 - Comic Book Review

Captain America: White - #2 - Marvel

Written By: Jeph Loeb

Art By: Tim Sale

After being shot out of the sky on a covert mission we find Captain America sinking to the floor of the Atlantic Ocean, unconscious. Fury, the Howling Commando’s and Bucky are trying to find means to stay afloat when Bucky realizes that Cap is nowhere to be found. Frantically swimming to the depths of the ocean floor he manages to save Captain America but not his shield. Cap, Fury, Bucky and the Commando’s make it to land but trouble and danger still linger as they search for who or what shot their plane out of the sky. 

This issue really serviced the personalities of the characters well. We now get a firm sense of the individuals, their personalties and the connection they have to each other from war. There’s still Captain America monologuing his perspective on things that occurred during World War 2. We enjoy the look back on his days fighting Nazi’s as well this issue and dialogue between characters is more driving the story than his view of things. It’s nice to see the characters take shape this issue and read their individual voices.

There’s also a few surprises in this issue that I won’t mention. I will say that each of the moments caused a different reaction and feeling. This second issue is great and it built momentum quickly. I no longer have the impression this series will take time to create but we will enjoy the time it takes to develop the characters in the story. I’m enjoying this series a great deal. 

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Captain America: White - Issue 1 - Comic Book Review

Captain America: White - #1 - Marvel

Written By: Jeph Loeb

Art By: Tim Sale

Captain America wakes up among “earth’s mightiest heroes” only to discover that he is no longer frozen in the year 1945. After he realizes that he is a man out of time he retreats to a church to do some thinking and has a brief discussion with Nick Fury. He begins to confess his regret and how his actions led to Bucky’s demise, or so he feels. 

This is a thick issue filled with incredible monologue. It’s actually two issues combined into one. It starts with Issue 1 and then jumps back into Issue 0 before the final page. It’s definitely worth the price because you get a fair amount of material in two issues. Additionally, Jeph Loeb masterfully writes the thoughts of a man who discovers his friend is dead and he is displaced in time, unfamiliar with life as an average person understands it. 

The majority of the story revolves around Captain America recalling the events that led to him being frozen and Bucky’s death. It’s filled with deep, introspective considerations regarding Cap’s actions and decisions during the second world war. The art work detailing Cap and Bucky’s battles with Nazi’s and helping the Howling Commandos looks like an actual painting. It’s incredible. There’s a lot to process for the first issue of 5 but it reads well and I found myself almost flipping pages before I finished reading. I was that engrossed in the story and Captain America’s perspective on things.

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Doctor Strange - Issue 4 - Comic Book Review

Doctor Strange - #4 - Marvel All New, All Different

Written By: Jason Aaron

Art By: Chris Bachalo

The Ancient One is in the midst of educating Stephen Strange on the philosophy of how magic impacts the user, similar to how a punch hurts both the striker and the one being hit. From there we jump to current time where Doctor Strange is meeting with all the sorcerers and mystics to discuss the revelations he’s discovered. Trouble is brewing and all are in search of what this magic killing power is and where it stems from. As Doctor Strange expands his search he discovers what he thought was true was not but much worse and it might be too late. 

Jason Aaron deciding to start with philosophical examinations of action/consequence was fantastic. Then to move back into the underground bar for the magicians (as seen in Issue 1) to discuss the peril magic users are in was great. I was most surprised to see Daimon Hellstrom make a cameo this issue. There’s lots of other great characters but his appearance peaked my interest immediately. 

The art work continues to shine. I’ve mentioned it before on a previous podcast but some of these panels could be framed or hung on a wall as art. I enjoy them that much. The look to this series is as unique as the good doctor. It’s such a great series and I can’t wait for the next issue. 

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Telos - Issue 4 - Comic Book Review

Telos - #4 - DC

Written By: Jeff King

Art By: Pagulayan, Vitorino, Paz, Deering, Marzan Jr and Steigerwald

Telos, Brainiac and Computo are in discussion before all the drones are set to attack and destroy Telos. Techne and the rest of the group are still trying to destroy the back up Satellite while fighting wave after wave of robot monsters. The battle continues and it’s unclear which side Brainiac is on but it’s clear that Telos and Computo will not rest until the other is dead. 

This issue was action city. It starts with a warning and then the next page everyone and everything is trying to kill someone or something and everything is exploding. I loved it. There are nonstop visual treats throughout this issue because the artists paid attention to the scene not just action. This issue read like a film would play and that was such a great experience. 

Telos keeps getting better and better and it started off great. So there’s no disappointment yet I have experienced. It’s starting to feel like Jeff King is writing this as the epic story of one mans journey to find the thing that his heart yearns for. “Homers, The Odyssey” is even quoted at the end leading me to believe this series will grow into something grandiose.

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