Comic Book Review: Secret Empire / Peter Parker: The Spectacular Spider-Man - Free Comic Book Day Edition - Marvel Comics

The following two reviews come from the same comic book.  They are from the special "Free Comic Book Day" edition.

Secret Empire
Written by Nick Spencer
Art by Andrea Sorrentino

The heroes of the Marvel Universe are in a tumultuous battle with Hydra.  Things are not going well and it is about to get a whole lot worse.

Captain America has been Hydra the whole time despite 70 years of fighting them.  I'm sure the preludes made sense of it but it just doesn't interest me at all.  I read this comic book and Secret Invasion #0 but I think that is as far as I will get.  Let me know when Captain America is back to normal.  It's a comic book event and there is no way he stays a villain.

On the bright side, Andrea Sorrentino is a fantastic artist.  I really enjoyed the visuals in this comic book, even if the story itself does not really get me excited.

Peter Parker: The Spectacular Spider-Man
"...Time Flies"
Written by Chip Zdarsky
Pencils by Paolo Siqueira
Inks by Walden Wong, Cam Smith, Jay Leisten & Paolo Siqueira
Colors by Frank D'Armata

Peter Parker is attempting to have lunch with Mary Jane Watson, head of Stark Industries but as always, some super-villain just happens to be causing mischief/mayhem.  Peter must leave to become the Spectacular Spider-Man and take on The Vulture.  There may be an extra person in play however...

This is more like it.  Lots of fun dialogue, a superhero in action and trying to juggle his personal life at the same time.  He takes on an old foe and meeting someone else who seems to be taking Paste Pot Pete's gimmick.  There were not many pages as this was a tease for the upcoming Spectacular Spider-Man series in June.

The art looks really good in this comic book.  A Spider-Man would be a tough series to take on since there are so many tall buildings and perspectives for the artist to draw.  This team did a wonderful job of doing this.  The buildings were detailed without being a distraction on the panels.  There is so much to love about Peter Parker: The Spectacular Spider-Man.  It looks like I will be adding this to my pull list at my local comic shop.

What are your thoughts on Secret Empire?  Will you be picking up Peter Parker: The Spectacular Spider-Man?

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Comic Book Review: Wolverine: Old Man Logan - Marvel Comics

"Old Man Logan"
Written by Mark Millar
Pencils by Steve McNiven
Inks by Dexter Vines, Mark Morales and Jay Leister
Colors by Morry Hollowell, Christina Strain, Justin Ponsor, Jason Keith, Nathan Fairbairn and Paul Mounts

This will not be an individual comic book review as I am reviewing the "Wolverine: Old Man Logan" trade paperback that I received in the Comic Bento subscription box.  The book collects Wolverine #66-72 and Wolverine: Old Man Logan Giant-Size.

The premise is that this tale takes place in a future where all of the villains got together and beat all the heroes and divided the United States between each other.  Not many heroes remain.  Logan hasn't unsheathed his claws in over fifty years as he raises his family on a farm near Sacramento, CA.  Times are tough and Logan is struggling to pay rent to the hillbilly Banner family.  Hawkeye comes to Logan with a proposition to make some fast money during a road trip.

For those that read Millar's "Wanted" comic book series, yes, this is the same premise.  Somehow all of these egotistical villains decided to get together to destroy the heroes and found a way to divide everything up between each other.  I know they are make believe characters in a make believe world, but why would Doctor Doom agree to ruling the Midwest and let Red Skull control the East Coast and Washington D.C. in particular?  And then there's Magneto.  Why would he only want Las Vegas?  Also, why would he agree to the slaughter of mutants?  Paste Pot Pete ended up with Paste Pot Creek so that part makes sense.

Millar keeps his Hulks in the same form as they were in "The Ultimates" comic book series.  They eat people.  Apparently Bruce Banner had a whole lot of repressed feelings in that genius mind of his.  He ends up mating with his cousin, She-Hulk, and creating a "special" Hulk family.

Hawkeye has become a drug-running Daredevil.  He has glaucoma and needs Logan to read the map.  Hawkeye is still driving the Spider-Buggy but at least Logan can tell him where to turn and such.

The overall story was pretty entertaining and it was fun to see where some of the heroes were taken out.  Finding out how Wolverine had been beaten and broken was a sad sight.  I'm sure you can guess that Logan can't keep the claws hidden for too long and Wolverine does end up going on a rampage.

The artwork in "Old Man Logan" is stellar.  Steve McNiven was an amazing choice to bring out the visuals for this series.  There is just enough detail to be jaw dropping but not distracting.  Logan and many of the characters are much older now and the wrinkles in the forehead and the way the people stood made you realize they've gotten older but you still wouldn't want to mess with them.  The backgrounds looked incredible as well.  Did I mention that the Venom Symbiote finds a Tyrannosaurus Rex host?

Overall the story is worth reading.  It reads pretty quickly as Millar is the type that really just writes dialogue and the artist is responsible for telling the story around the dialogue.  Luckily Steve McNiven is the artist so you get good dialogue with remarkable artwork.

What are your thoughts on "Wolverine: Old Man Logan?"  What other comic book series would you like us to review?  Find us on social media and let us know.

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MPT Podshort - Comic Book Corner

Handsome J reviews some of the all new, all different "Doctor Strange" issues and even has a little surprise at the end! Go subscribe on iTunes.

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The MPT Comicbook Corner Podshort

Handsome J breaks down some of the Marvel comics he read in one evening and gives each one a rating in this brand new podshort series.

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Comic Book Review: Spider-Man #7 - Marvel Comics (2016)

Written by Brian Michael Bendis
Art by Nico Leon
Colors by Marte Gracia
Cover by Sara Pichelli & Jason Keith

Miles Morales is having a hard time sleeping as he isn't sure if he should take up the fight in Civil War II.  Miles' mom is also having a hard time sleeping as she wants to know what private investigator Jessica Jones has found out about her son.

Things have definitely gotten interesting for the younger Spider-Man as he struggles to figure out if he should join the fight or not.  It's even more difficult when you have seen a glimpse of the future and find out the Hulk may be coming after you(not sure if it's the Totally Awesome version or not, I didn't notice an early 2000s faux-hawk).

I like the direction of this comic book series, even if some of the references that are to be made by teenagers are a bit dated(the future's so bright, gotta wear shades - way to stay with the times).  Spider-Man's inner struggle is well done and well thought out.  He knows what he thinks is right but it is still out of his comfort zone.  Heroes are going to be fighting heroes and that can't be high on a young crime-fighter's list of things to do.

Spider-Man's mom is getting awfully close to finding out who he is.  I'd prefer that to not happen as I like the struggle of keeping a secret identity.  His father knows and I like seeing that dynamic at home.

Spider-Man is a good series.  Sure you have to get past some of the dialogue that doesn't seem very natural but the overall story is good and is heading into interesting directions.

What are your thoughts on Spider-Man?  What other comic books would you like Maskerpiece Theatre to review?

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Comic Book Review: Han Solo #3 - Marvel Comics (2016)

Part III

Written by Marjorie Liu
Pencils by Mark Brooks
Inks by Dexter Vines
Colors by Sonia Oback
Cover by Lee Bermejo

The Dragon Void race has been delayed by the Galactic Empire.  With some persuasion, the Empire does allow the race to re-start and Han Solo is able to continue his secret mission.

One of the best parts of this comic book is the fact you have a bit more to read.  Modern comic books seem to have a lot less words compared to the 70s-80s.  The other part I like, writer Marjorie Liu seems to have a good handle on how Han Solo and other known characters talk in the films.  This feels like it is a part of the film series.

The complaint I have is the notion of how time is tracked.  I find it odd that the term "hours" would be used since that is something based on the revolutions of the Earth.  Why would characters from all across a galaxy long ago and far, far away use our ways of measuring time?  I feel like there should be a way of being more creative in this sense.  All of the Star Wars books seem to have issues with this small quibble I have.

I do enjoy the Star Wars series' from Marvel.  Han Solo takes place between A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back.  This is a fun way of putting together the stories in between the films.

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Comic Book Review: Civil War II #1 - Marvel Comics

Every summer the big two comic book companies put on some sort of comic book "event."  Marvel's entry into this foray is Civil War II and I'll admit, I was a bit hesitant on jumping on board.  I actually had issues waiting for me in my pull box at my local comic book shop but I decided to not partake after issue #0.  It wasn't because of the story being bad, it's more because Marvel charges more for comic books than other comic book companies.  I received issue #1 in my Marvel Collector's Corps subscription box and figured I should probably give it a read.

This book delivered.  It's thicker than most comic books so the $5.99 cover price, while steep, is a bit more understandable.  I'm sure this book would have been even better if I had been following the Marvel comics that coincide with it, but you get the idea pretty quick about what's going on.

Ulysses is a character that can see into the future and some feel that's a good thing while others find him dangerous.  Nobody knows him and nobody can get into his head.  Ulysses sees something coming and it turns this whole story on its head.  Lives are lost and the battle lines are about to be drawn.

The art in this book is top notch.  There is so much to enjoy whether it's the action or the expressions on heroes' faces.  This is a well crafted book.  Check out the fun cover I got with it as well(pictured).

The dialogue is good.  The younger heroes are kind of annoying but once you get Tony Stark and Carol Danvers talking, things get much better.  Lots of things are going on and it's a lot of fun.

Should you buy it?  If you like Marvel, maybe.  If you hate buying $6 comics and feel the only way to combat such atrocities is to not buy it, I say stay away.  Wait six months and read it on the Marvel Unlimited app.

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Comic Book Review: The Punisher #2 - Marvel Comics (2016)

Written by Becky Cloonan
Art by Steve Dillon

The Punisher is on the hunt for more drug dealers after getting a tip from someone he couldn't bust in the last issue.  A villain named Face is looking forward to an encounter with The Punisher as well.

I love Punisher comic books.  This is an excellent comic book and a fun read.  With that said, there is not much dialogue in this book and I was through it pretty quick.  The story is good and it's moving along well but it's just so short lived as there's really not much to read.  I'm hoping future issues have a bit more talking or thoughts as it's taking me way longer to type this review than it took me to read the comic book...twice.

Steve Dillon is amazing.  I have been a fan of his work for quite some time and I've always enjoyed his work on multiple Punisher series.'  One thing that strikes me as odd in this series is The Punisher wears a t-shirt.  No long sleeves or armor.  He looks cool, so I guess that works for me.

What are your thoughts on The Punisher?  What other comic books would you like Maskerpiece Theatre to review?  Please comment below or find us on social media.

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Comic Book Review: Spider-Man #1 - Marvel Comics (2016)

Written by Brian Michael Bendis
Art by Sara Pichelli
Color by Justin Ponsor

Miles Morales is having a tough time at school and home it's because the guy is Spider-Man.  There are plenty of bad guys to deal with, but in this first issue, Spider-Man, and the rest of the Marvel Universe more than have their hands full.  I included the picture of the Skottie Young cover as the is the issue I received.

This book was a pleasant surprise for me.  I really enjoy Miles Morales as Spider-Man as he has much of the same youthful charm as a young Peter Parker.  The great thing is, we don't need to re-hash old stories as Miles is still young and Peter's story has been told and told and told again inside the comic pages.  Don't fret though true-believers, Peter is still involved in the Spider-Man world.

Brian Michael Bendis is the go-to guy for Marvel if you need a successful well written story.  It's pretty hard not to enjoy his work.  Bendis has been with Marvel a long time and created Miles Morales.

Sara Pichelli's art looks great and panel to panel the flow was wonderful.  She captures facial expressions incredibly well and is excellent with the action shots.  There is plenty of everything you could want from a Spider-Man book in this issue.

With all that said, I felt like Justin Ponsor was an absolute superstar in this book.  Colorists do not, for the most part, get enough credit for what they do in a comic book.  Every page looked amazing, or maybe the word is spectacular(either way, a description fitting for ol' Web-Head).  The colors make this book such a pleasure to look at.

What are your thoughts on Spider-Man?  What other comic books would you like Maskerpiece Theatre to review?  Please respond in the comment section below.

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Comic Book Review: Star Wars #16 - Marvel Comics(2016)

"Rebel Jail"

Written by Jason Aaron
Art by Leinil Yu

Dr. Aphra is being transported to a secret Alliance prison by Princess Leia and Sana.  Luke Skywalker and Han Solo are in charge of procuring supplies and Han has a plan to get more than originally planned.

I was a bit surprised at how much Aphra shoots her mouth off about being with Darth Vader as their work together is supposed to be kept a secret from the Empire.  A prison seems like the worst place to tell secrets.

I like the conversation between Sana and Princess Leia.  Leia believes in doing things the right way.  No torture or other nefarious methods that the Empire may employ.  Sana seems to know more about Dr. Aphra and she feels the Rebel Alliance should do whatever they can to get information out of her.
Luke Skywalker and Han Solo have some troubles of their own.  Those troubles should lead us into some new adventures in the next issue.

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Comic Book Review: Deadpool #1 - Marvel Comics (2016)

Written by Gerry Duggan
Art my Mike Hawthorne

Will the real Deadpool please stand up?  Deadpool can't be everywhere at once but a hot commodity like himself needs to be to keep the brand alive so some obscure yet familiar faces in the Marvel universe dress as the Merc' with a Mouth.

This was a fun first issue to get this story going.  Who is the real Deadpool and what are his motives?  Being a Marvel fan, I like seeing these lesser known characters dressing up as Deadpool.

If you're a fan of Deadpool, grab this book.  If you are still trying to figure out who Deadpool is, then seeing #1 on the comic book can be a bit deceiving.  This doesn't start anything over so if that's what you're looking for, well that's just what Marvel does.  Seeing issue #1 only signifies a new story line.  It does not catch you up on what has been happening.  For this reason, I will tell anyone that you should read what you think may be interesting regardless of issue number.  Pick up a series and go from there.  If you want to catch up, Marvel has the Unlimited app which collects much of their works for a low monthly cost.  DC and other companies will still require you to buy graphic novels or back issues from your local comic shop or digital download.

Okay, now that I'm done with that rant, we can talk about the cover.  This came from the Marvel Collector Corps subscription box.  I typed up a review of the entire box of exclusive items and you can read that here.  I really like the Funko POP! look to this cover with Deadpool atop a mound of chimichangas and tacos.

What are your thoughts on Deadpool?  What comic books do you recommend?  Please leave your comments below.

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Comic Book Review: Darth Vader #16 - Marvel Comics (2016)

"The Shu-Torun War"

Written by Kieron Gillen
Art by Salvador Larroca

Darth Vader has defeated Karbin and now he has been ordered to return to Shu-Torun to ensure the empire is able to get all of the resources from the planet.  Vader is also looking to get Aphra back from the rebels who captured her.

Darth Vader returns to the planet he recently visited(read the review to that book here).  The queen he put into power is having a difficult time wearing the many hats that she must so Vader brings in his own brand of how to handle civil unrest.  Kieron Gillen is adding so much to the mythos of Darth Vader and the way he has fleshed out this character is absolutely astounding.  I look forward to purchasing this book every month.

Aphra wasn't really in this book but I'm really looking forward to seeing what happens with her.  I've speculated in other blogs about her being Rey's mom and I think that could make for really interesting storytelling and could make people want to go through and read these comics if that were to be the big reveal.

Salvador Larroca is doing a splendid job with all of the artwork for Darth Vader.  He has the task of drawing all the different worlds and capturing facial expressions very well.  This comic book series is a must have.

What are your thoughts on Darth Vader?  What other comic books would you like Maskerpiece Theatre to review?  Please leave your thoughts below.

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Jessica Jones Review: Season 1 Episode 5 "AKA The Sandwich Saved Me"

Jessica Jones Season 1 Episode 5

“AKA The Sandwich Saved Me”

Synopsis:

Despite Jessica’s objections, Trish’s new friend Simpson gets involved in the hunt for Kilgrave. Jessica recalls a pivotal moment in her life.

Review:

Episode 5 starts with a flashback…..It’s about time, all the cool comic book shows are doing it. It’s 18 months back and we see Trish and Jessica drinking, Trish is trying to talk Jessica into becoming a hero. In present time Jessica starts to follow Malcolm and truly learn that he is working with Kilgrave. This creates a opportunity for Jessica to not only save her friend but also gives her a chance to catch Kilgrave.

Jessica will need to work with Trish’s new “Friend” Officer Simpson….can you say stockholm syndrome? Simpson knows of a Safehouse which can hold someone of Kilgraves abilities. The plan comes together and Jessica is able to get Kilgrave however things go wrong when his bodyguard catch up and are able to get him back due to the tracker that is on him.

Final Thoughts:

It was a nice blend of flashbacks to give a little of Jessica’s past. The best part of this might be the little nod to her prior Superhero persona Jewel. Trish even had a mockup created of the outfits she had worn in some of the comics. Than there is the final Flashback, Jessica meets Kilgrave while she is stopping the mugging of her neighbor Malcolm. This is were she is ultimately taken over and is the start of her time with Kilgrave. 

We were finally given the opportunity to see why Malcolm has been part of the show, now with him choosing to help Jessica by getting clean it will be interesting to see what his new part will be in helping her. Interesting enough I think he will ultimately be the voice of reason.

There has been a huge difference between Daredevil and Jessica Jones. Unlike its predecessor Jessica Jones introduced the main villain early in the season and within the last few episodes we already have had multiple interactions with Kilgrave. The mental aspect of the games Kilgrave plays is what keeps the show interesting even though he can be caught and ultimately stopped.

Another great episode, I give it Two Thumbs Up. Leave your comments below and let us know what your thoughts on Episode 5 were.

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. 

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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. 

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Comic Book Review: Drax #1 - Marvel Comics (2015)

Written by CM Punk & Cullen Bunn

Art by Scott Hepburn & Matt Milla

With the rest of the All New, All Different Guardians of the Galaxy going their separate ways after a successful battle, Drax needs to find something to do.  Well if you're Drax, I guess that means it's time to go kill Thanos.  

"Drax" #1 is a good, lighthearted start to a space adventure.  Drax borrows a beat up spaceship from Rocket, attempts to get into fights in space and also has a realization that he doesn't even know where Thanos is.  Good thing he crash lands on some planet, he could've been flying around aimlessly for quite a while.  Drax isn't the wordy type of hero so expect to see more onomatopoeia as he destroys or tries to keep his ship flying.  

I'm interested to see where this book heads in terms of story line.  Is this something that Marvel may look at in a long haul sort of way or will we get a half dozen issues before they cancel it?  Either way, it's a fun book.  Cullen Bunn is great at making violence fun. It's very cool to see comic book writing newcomer CM Punk be able to co-write with him.  CM Punk, of course, is known for being a former professional wrestler and now moving on to be part of the UFC(busy guy!).  

Scott Hepburn is an excellent choice for artist when it comes to Drax.  It's a fun book and he has an even more fun style of drawing.  

"Drax" #1 is available in stores now.

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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.

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Comic Book Review: Deadpool VS Thanos #2 - Marvel

"Deadpool VS Thanos”  Issue #2

Written By: Tim Seeley

Art By: Elmo Bondoc, Ruth Redmond

The issue begins with Thanos composing a message to Death regarding her absence and how the universe is in disorder without her and his view on lives everlasting. Enter Deadpool singing before Thanos silences him and Deadpool quips about their current situation in outer space searching for Death. As the pursuit across a planet continues, the fact that death awaits no one is emphasized while Deadpool’s sarcasm is ever present. Thanos and Deadpool run into a familiar band of space travelers and then, at close, new danger makes an appearance threatening Deadpool. 

My first impression was to feel impressed at the depth of perspective by the Thanos monologue regarding life and how necessary and valuable death truly is. This intensity is cut short once Deadpool arrives in his usual mouthy fashion. This constant back and forth between the two characters is one reason I enjoy this series so much right now.

As they travel through space and across planets searching for Death it’s remarkable how well this oil and water of personalities play together. Thanos the mad titan who wants nothing more than to show worthiness to his love Death and Deadpool constantly reminding Thanos he had relations with Death too so they’re basically eskimo brothers.

    It’s no secret Deadpool doesn’t die but to read his frustrations with how nobody else he fights will die is very entertaining. His reactions are priceless and his comical frustration meets general frustrated acceptance Thanos displays is a nice balance.

 

The series is $3.99 an issue which is pretty affordable considering Marvel has hiked up pricing for the new runs they released recently. If this story can keep this pricing I think most people will come around to enjoying it. It’s not overly challenging to read and it’s a fun reprieve from the day to day. 

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Comic Book Review: Doctor Strange (All New All Different!) - Issue 1 - Marvel

“Doctor Strange”  Issue #1

Written By: Jason Aaron

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

Synopsis

Issue 1 starts off with a single page origin story that gets you right into who Doctor Strange is and why he is Sorcerer Supreme. Immediately following we see the good Doctor running from some of the most bizarre looking creatures while carrying a shield. He’s battling Soul-Eaters and one of them seems to be attracted to him. After a battle with their “Champion” the Soul-Eaters are defeated and we see Strange hovering above a child who was being tormented by the same spirits that Doctor Strange just defeated. 

After further ventures into the world as only Doctor Strange lives and sees, he’s met with trouble but vanquishes it by using a battle axe. The good Doctor then meets up with Doctor Voodoo, Shaman and Scarlett Witch to discuss recent happenings that are even more bizarre than they are used to. Monako, Prince of Magic, even shows up to explain the balance of reality and magic and then Doctor Strange departs. 

Before the Sorcerer Supreme can enter his Sanctum Sanctorum he meets a young women who is debating on whether to knock on the door or not. She’s in need of assistance and it’s the kind only Doctor Strange can provide. Then we’re whisked away to another dimension where trouble is brewing and it might be too late before Doctor Strange ever finds out. 

Opinion

The very first issue of a brand new Doctor Strange series was everything I wanted. As a Doctor Strange fan I had high hopes for this new run and it exceeded my expectations. The art work makes everything look so unique and bizarre which is so much of what Doctor Strange deals with. Sorcerer Supreme has a brand new, all different, attitude which just plays perfectly in this world. 

When he meets up with the magicians to discuss bizarre events (even bizarre for them) you feel like you have a private seat at, probably, the most powerful table in the universe. The characters personalities all add a fun spice to the story and the narration by Doctor Strange just keeps the story moving in a revealing and entertaining fashion. 

All the battles mix physical combat and magic so well and, again, the art work just brings this issue to life. I just can’t say enough about how much I really enjoyed this issue. If future issues are as entertaining and enjoyable as this first one Doctor Strange will be around for awhile!

By the twelve moons of Munnopor and the Icy Tendrils of Ikthalon I give this issue two thumbs up. May the light of the Vishanti shine on you as you enjoy this issue of the all new, all different, Doctor Strange.  

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