Comic Book Review: Star Wars #12 - Marvel Comics (2015)

Written by Jason Aaron
Art by Stuart Immonen

On the smuggler's moon of Nar Shadaa, Luke is in Grakkus the Hutt's gladiator arena against the monster known as Kongo the Disembowler.  Chewbacca and C-3PO are on the planet as well but have been embroiled in a fight a
gainst a bounty hunter named Dengar.  Han Solo, Princess Leia and Han's "wife" Sana have just arrived onto the infamous moon and see what is happening with Chewie, C-3PO and Dengar.  We also find out there's more to the Gamemaster than anyone had originally imagined.

Luke is in a fight for his life but the odds quickly change into his favor.  Imperial forces are raiding Grakkus the Hutt's arena and Luke's allies are on the way.  There's so much going on all at once, it's tough to type up a review.  Kudos to Jason Aaron for crafting such an awesome tale.  Twelve issues in and the action has been incredible.

I apparently don't know too much about how EMPs impact the Star Wars universe.  I guess the electronics target blasters, communicators and shock collars.  Light sabers and droids are fine, so that works out well for our heroes.  It was also kind of fun seeing Chewbacca and Princess Leia weilding the light sabers as well.

I like the direction of the Gamemaster.  He is more than just a trainer and it looks like we will see plenty more of him.  He looks a bit like a professional wrestler with an Assassins Creed gimmick but it still seems to work.

I absolutely love this series.  Never a dull moment and Jason Aaron is using dialogue that makes you feel like you actually hear the characters' voices.  That, coupled with Stuart Immonen's amazing artwork, has made this a monthly must-buy.

What are your thoughts on the Star Wars comic books?  What other comic books would you like the crew at Maskerpiece Theatre review?  Please let us know in comments below.

Maskerpiece Theatre is sponsored by MoviePass. See unlimited movies at a theater near you for a low monthly rate.

You can also support our show by using our Amazon banners or donating on our Support Us page.

Comic Book Review: The Shadow - Issue 4 - Dynamite

“The Shadow"  Issue #4

Written By: Cullen Bunn

Art By: Giovanni Timpano and Marco Lesko

The issue begins with the Shadow monologuing about a item he took from London in the last issue, and the author of that particular item, while making his way back to America. We then cut to Los Angeles, California, where the Shadow is attending a magicians show for high paying customers who enjoy grand spectacles. More dialogue confirms in the minds of the reader that the Shadow is a servant of justice and will stop at nothing to ensure that the guilty pay for their crimes. The Shadow makes his way back stage to discover who else is behind these recent criminal actions and he’s confronted by the Sandman once more. After a brief entanglement it’s revealed that they aren’t the only two there and it’s not looking good for the Shadow or the Sandman.

This issue was dialogue heavy which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. You need some issues to explain more about what has and will be occurring in the series. This felt like that issue. While there is some enjoyable action towards the end the one aspect that I enjoyed the most was a two page spread showing the mind of a writer who composes stories from nightmares. The art work was unique and I was entranced. The panels used to tell the story were not typical squared off panels and it flowed so well across two pages. Excellent work on the art early in the issue.

The Sandman is becoming quite a complex villain as we move from issue to issue getting just a little bit more of his character with every encounter he has with the Shadow. I’m not fully convinced he’s as menacing as I feel we’re being led to believe. He feels like that one villain who talks too much, is a adequate fighter but escapes on some level of luck, similar to Bond villains. None the less, he’s proving to be a challenge to the Shadow and that keeps his character entertaining to read. 

Again, another $3.99 well spent. This series continues to build and build upon the detective type story with the golden age of Hollywood design. The Shadow and all characters present had some enjoyable dialogue this issue and I still look forward to reading the next issue. Who knows what evil lurks in the pages of the next issue? Only the Shadow knows… so stop by your local comic book shop and pick a copy up today. Oh, and tell them Maskerpiece Theatre sent you. 

Click here to listen or right click and choose "Save As..." to download.

Please support our show by clicking the links to our Sponsors.

Comic Book Review: The Shadow - Issue 3 - Dynamite

“The Shadow"  Issue #3

Written By: Cullen Bunn

Art By: Giovanni Timpano and Marco Lesko

The issue begins with the Shadow battling wild and mysterious beasts who have been released from their cages. After defeating the animals the Shadow finds Sandman in a room full of mutilated human bodies, seemingly dead, and the dialogue between characters tells us there’s more to Sandman than just being a hired hand to kill the Shadow. Furthermore, it’s revealed that there’s another secret society of magicians and in order to find out more about this war that is building the Shadow must travel to London. There he meets one of Houdini’s competing magicians and friend but their time together is cut short when Shadow discovers that she has been poisoned. 

This issue starts off with action and ends with murder. What a ride this issue was! The art work done for the room full of mutilated bodies was enjoyable. It’s not every day I read a comic that has bodies lying dead on the floor from being strangled but somehow the strangling hand was cut off. Also, what type of murderer pops out someones eyes and then lays them next to the head of the now presumably dead body? This issue pulled out all the stops for murder and mayhem. 

The dialogue between Shadow and Sandman was entertaining as well. We learn that Sandman is more methodical than originally thought and he’s not just a hit man, but more a calculated assassin of sorts. The writing also informs us that Shadow realizes his powers are being tested and that he needs to increase his abilities to become more powerful in order to stop the secret societies of magicians that are waging war on each other. 

This series will be staying at $3.99 it appears but I’ve accepted that and I still feel it’s worth it. I also still feel that even a dollar less would attract more readers who might not know anything about The Shadow. It’s worth the read if you’re into the 1940’s era detective crime and murder saga’s. It’s worth the read if you’re into magic also. Stop on by your local comic book shop and pick a copy up today. Oh, and tell them Maskerpiece Theatre sent you. 

Click here to listen or right click and choose "Save As..." to download.

Please support our show by clicking the links to our Sponsors.

Comic Book Review: The Shadow - Issue 2 - Dynamite

"The Shadow"  Issue #2

Written By: Cullen Bunn

Art By: Giovanni Timpano and Marco Lesko

The issue begins with the Shadow in a graveyard speaking to the grave of Houdini who has been dead for 10 years. We cut to a shipping yard where the Society of United Magicians is seeking the aid of “Sandman” who brings with him boxes full of mysterious and powerful creatures. From we cut to the Shadow interrogating a man who tells us the back story on Houdini’s last great spell and it’s origins., why the Magicians want it and what it’s potential power is. 

“The Shadow” continues to entertain in this second issue. We find out how desperate the Society of United Magicians is and to what lengths they’ll consider to achieve their goal. The Shadow continues to build on his knowledge using his detective skills and interrogation methods that only he has at his disposal. The final pages reveal that there’s more danger in store for our hero and I can’t wait to read how the Shadow handles this threat. 

This issue was $3.99 but could’ve been $2 and still been just as enjoyable. I don’t feel the $4 price tag was unreasonable but this series could be less expensive and would probably reach more readers. “The Shadow” is a fun read and it’s sometimes campy delivery works well. I’m excited for read more in this series and want to see how far the magicians will go to achieve the knowledge that they seek. 

Click here to listen or right click and choose "Save As..." to download.

Please support our show by clicking the links to our Sponsors.

Comic Book Review: The Shadow -Issue 1 - Dynamite

“The Shadow"  Issue #1

Written By: Cullen Bunn

Art By: Giovanni Timpano and Marco Lesko

The issue begins with a magician, Carlini, dying in bed and being greeted by “The Society of United Magicians" who are in search of Houdini’s last great magic trick, from beyond the grave. From there it cuts to a circus where the Shadow is trying to apprehend another magician while battling circus freaks, who are literally shooting themselves at him from cannons. It’s revealed that the Magicians are searching for Houdini’s secret with violent means but only the Shadow knows Houdini’s secret and the Magicians will not stop until they’ve uncovered the secret… by any means necessary.

What a fun trip back into the world of “The Shadow” and mystery meets crime drama. All the aspects of the Shadow are captured here and even the dialogue is appropriate to the character and the world this story takes place in. Old cars, old planes, old guns, classic outfits and hairstyles, it’s all here. Even the font used when the Shadow laughs and disappears feels right. If you’re a fan of the Shadow you’ll appreciate this issue. If you aren’t yet a fan, you might still enjoy the campy feel of a 1940’s murder mystery that deals with magicians.

The initial issue was only $1 and well worth it. The story is well paced and keeps you engaged without slowing down too much for dialogue. The swiftness in which the Shadow moves is captured here as well and if you grew up listening to, or recently have enjoyed, the old radio shows you can hear Orson Welles maniacal laugh each time the laugh happens in this issue. I’m curious to see where the story goes with this nefarious group calling themselves “The Society of United Magicians” and I hope after reading you are too. 

Click here to listen or right click and choose "Save As..." to download.

Please support our show by clicking the links to our Sponsors.

Comic Book Review: Deadpool VS Thanos #4 - Marvel

“Deadpool VS Thanos”  Issue #4

Written By: Tim Seeley

Art By: Elmo Bondoc, Ruth Redmond and VCs Joe Sabino

The issue opens up with Eternity and Death discussing judgement when they are interrupted by the In-Betweener. From there we see Thanos and Deadpool freeing Mistress Death and then being granted all of Deaths power to combat Eternity. This doesn’t go as smoothly as Mistress Death would Hope as Deadpool realizes that life is important and her power is removed from him and left to Thanos who battles Eternity. A surprise visitor shows up and grants Deadpool certain powers to fight for Eternity and stop Thanos and certain revelations are made that show Deadpool might be more insightful than he let’s on.  

Another enjoyable issue that has some laugh out loud moments from the Merc with a mouth. The art continues to be one of the main delights in this series as Deadpool and Thanos travel the cosmos, Hell and beyond in pursuit of Death. The attention to detail and coloring for each location helps build on the concept that the characters are traveling all over. It feels like Deadpool and Thanos are actually in these realms and not just the same location with a slightly different look. 

Towards the end of the issue there’s some great dialogue between Deadpool and Thanos that show the true nature of Thanos. Tim Seeley went with Thanos being surprised with Deadpools perspective and it’s accuracy and truth which I thought was a great idea. Ultimately, Deadpool realizes that the life and death balance makes eternity all the more important and beautiful which does not sit well with Death. The closing observations by Deadpool really allow you to appreciate his quick wit because now it’s with the understanding the shallow comments originate from a deeper place… like his lover for the Golden Girls TV show. 

This issue is $3.99 and worth it, again. This story builds and builds until you completely understand and appreciate the final battle between Deadpool and Thanos. It’s a fun read and it has some thought provoking perspective on the value of life and the importance of death. Hop over to your local comic book store and pick up the issue and back issues if you haven’t read them yet.  Oh, and tell them Maskerpiece Theatre sent you. 

Click here to listen or right click and choose "Save As..." to download.
Please support our show by clicking the links to our Sponsors.

Comic Book Review: Darth Vader #12 - Marvel Comics (2015)

Written by Kieron Gillen
Art by Salvador Larroca

Darth Vader is in a bit of a pickle as his secret accomplice Aphra is very close to being captured by the Empire.  A change in the relationship between Vader and Inspector Thanoth may change peoples' perspective over who has really been spying on Darth Vader.

"Darth Vader" as a comic book continues to impress me.  A dozen issues in every issue has had my attention in some way, shape or form.  Aphra is a great character along with her bloodthirsty droid companions.  Vader keeping his secret hunt for the boy that blew up the Death Star has had all the twists and turns that you could hope for in a story.

This story will be continued in the first issue of "Vader Down" and then continues back in the regular "Darth Vader" series as well as the "Star Wars" series.  I'll do my best to keep up and attempt to get these scheduled reviews to coincide with what is happening story-wise.

"Darth Vader" #12  is available in comic book shops now with a cover price of $3.99.

You can read more of my blogs here on Maskerpiece Theatre and also on http://cinemaheadcheese.blogspot.com/

Please let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Comic Book Review: Doctor Strange #2 - Marvel

“Doctor Strange”  Issue #2

Written By: Jason Aaron

Art By: Chris Bachalo, Tim Townsend, Al Vey and Mark Irwin

The issue begins with Doctor Strange battling the bizarre creature growing out of the young librarians head in the last issue. Peculiar magic is at play right now and Wong and Strange are set on trying to discover where these unfamiliar magics originated and why his magic incantations are useless. Earth’s Sorcerer Supreme takes the young woman on a tour through the Sanctum Sanctorum to find the creatures and research spells to defeat them when it is revealed to Strange what he must do in order to stop these magical monsters. However, unbeknownst to Doctor Strange and company danger still lurks in the shadows of other realms. When this danger will eventually reveal itself is to be determined, but our Sorcerer Supreme will have his hands full, I’m sure.

I can’t even begin to adequately express how much I am loving this new run on Doctor Strange. Jason Aaron is already one of my favorite writers around right now and add that to the unique stylings in art and color and what an impressive two issues. This is Doctor Strange like I’ve not read before and what a fantastic time. He’s a confident character but he’s more down-to-earth and relatable for Sorcerer Supreme. He’s noticeably different than Doctor Strange of issues past and it works well.

The journey through Sanctum Sanctorum is fascinating. The way this new Doctor Strange lives in the bizarre and peculiar with such ease and comfort is quite entertaining and at times humorous. The single panel dealing with the snakes gave me a laugh, for example. Every room is a new bizarre reality that has unique characteristics that, as the Doctor warns, could make you go mad. It feels like the Sanctum will be a character unto itself and I’m perfectly happy with that.

This issue is $3.99 and considering it’s part of the “All New, All Different” Marvel comic runs right now, it’s quite the steal. My initial concern was that it would be much pricier but this price point doesn’t quell my anticipation at all for the next issue, or the one after that, or that. If you’re looking for something different from Marvel, Doctor Strange is it. 

Click here to listen or right click and choose "Save As..." to download.

Please support our show by clicking the links to our Sponsors.

Comic Book Review: "Deadpool VS Thanos" #3 - Marvel

“Deadpool VS Thanos”  Issue #3

Written By: Tim Seeley

Art By: Elmo Bondoc, Ruth Redmond

The issue begins with Deadpool being tortured by the same trouble we met in the finale of the last issue. Thanos, indeed, saves Deadpool and this is the first time we read about how and why Thanos could ever respect Deadpool. It’s determined that in order to find death the trail leads away from outer space and back to earth, for a moment. 

The doorway into Hell is not easily located, not even for Thanos. Deadpool calls in a favor from a surprising character and the three travel into Hell to meet Mephisto. Before Thanos and Mephisto can agree on anything a surprise intruder appears to attack Deadpool and then Mephisto. Again this issue Thanos saves the day and Deadpool reveals to the group that he knows where Death is and Mephisto is powerful enough to send Thanos and Deadpool there...

This issue was enjoyable for some of the same reasons as before; however, this issue deals with facing consequences and dealing with those who you have wronged. This is all, of course, done with a Deadpool flair so while it’s poignant it’s still humorous. 

The art work for Hell is spectacular. It’s challenging to see such character from a setting using primarily reds and oranges but in this issue it’s quite good. The contest of colors used for Thanos really helps him stick out as an individual in this setting and it all works.

Again, the issue is only $3.99 and worth it. This run keeps getting more and more enjoyable as they build on what is possible when death is nonexistent. What happens when life is perpetual, even in the after life. It’s humorous and contemplative. It questions the value of life and the importance of death… and Deadpool might suck face with a skeleton in the process.

Click here to listen or right click and choose "Save As..." to download.

Please support our show by clicking the links to our Sponsors.

Comic Book Review: Ian Flemmings "James Bond, 007: Vargr"- Issue 1 - Dynamite

“James Bond 007: Vargr”  Issue #1

Written By: Warren Ellis

Art By: Jason Masters and Guy Majors

Synopsis

Issue 1 starts off with a strange man running through snow, trying to escape from someone. While it’s unclear who these two men are that are actively engaging one another it’s clear that they are not friends. After some enjoyable fighting and dismemberment we meet Bond, James Bond.

It’s revealed that 007 has, curiously, been struggling to complete missions in a timely order. The last mission he completed so quickly “M” wonders if revenge jobs are what motivate James to be more efficient. We are also introduced to Money Penny and “Q” at this point. 

Finally we’re shown a man who appears to be experiencing medical procedures in an effort to find a cure for what ails him. It’s revealed that he is, in some manner, an assassin and James Bond is his next target...

Opinion

This comic read just like the James Bond movies perform. The voicing of characters is spectacular. As I’m reading the dialogue I can hear the voices of each character familiar to us from the movies. The dialogue is enjoyable and hearing those memorable voices in my head as I read made this comic such fun.

The challenges that face James Bond in this comic are dangerous, humorous and slightly ridiculous. All in all, the challenges make sense and the reactions from 007 are spot on. Even the witty/flirty banter between James and Money Penny draws you into this world we have come to enjoy so much over the decades. 

While humming the James Bond theme song and smiling like a noob, I can’t help but give this issue a Martini, shaken not stirred. If you are as much a fan of James Bond as I am or merely a 007 enthusiast you’ll enjoy this issue. Plus what better time to read a new James Bond comic than right before the new Bond movie is released in theater! #JamesBondapalooza 

Click here to listen or right click and choose "Save As..." to download.

Please support our show by clicking the links to our Sponsors.