Comic Book Review: Silver Surfer - Marvel Comics (2016)

"Homecoming"

Written by Dan Slott & Michael Allred
Art by Michael Allred & Laura Allred

The Silver Surfer and Dawn return to Earth and they get there in time as the Earth is in danger of having something stolen.

Silver Surfer as a comic is a bit different than other comic books.  The book is as much about the Earthling, Dawn, that the Surfer has befriended.  This particular story is fun as the ending isn't just the Silver Surfer overpowering his enemies.  Sure, the Silver Surfer is one of the most powerful beings in the Marvel Universe, but adding Dawn to the mix to give a different perspective is great.  She adds a compassionate and empathetic view that makes you think of other outcomes.

This had to be a fun book for Michael and Laura Allred to work on.  There were a lot of pop culture protagonists that they included and all in alien form.  Doctor Who, the Bride from Kill Bill and many many more.  As cool as that was, it was even cooler to see the most well known Allred creation, Madman, coming out of the pages of a comic book!

I know there was a lot of information shared in this post, but I'm hoping it entices you to pick this book up.  I try not to include too many spoilers as I know Dan Slott along with Michael and Laura Allred put a lot of hard work into their books.  Silver Surfer #1 is a fun book and definitely worth a read.  I received this comic book from the Comic Block Subscription Box and you can read the review of that here.

What are your thoughts on Silver Surfer?  What books are you reading and would recommend to Maskerpiece Theatre?  Please leave your comments below.

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Supergirl Review: Season 1 Episode 14 "Truth, Justice, and the American Way"

Supergirl Season 1 Episode 14

“Truth, Justice, and the American Way”

Synopsis:

Kara battles the Master Jailer while dealing with a second assistant at CatCo and disagreeing with James over the DEO’s methods.

Review:

While grieving with over her Aunt’s death, Kara is having issue with Hank and her belief of his involvement with Astra’s death. The stress isn’t just with the DEO but at CatCo where Cat has hired a second assistant Siobhan Smythe. 

Also during this episode, Kara and the DEO are dealing with another Alien, one that is tracking down former prisoners of Fort Roz and Killing them. Before being captured by the Master Jailer, Kara was in a disagreement with Jimmy over the unlawful imprisonment of Maxwell Lord. Kara and another prisoner are finally rescued by Alex, but before the end of the episode Kara tells Hank that she doesn’t know when she can work with him again.

Final Thoughts:

First lets get some of the fun little teases that the show seemed to deliver, whether they were actual easter eggs or just mis-directs remains to be seen but here are the two that I saw from tonights episode. During a conversation between Alex and Hank they make mention of a Interstellar Bounty Hunter being in town…..Could this be a reference to Lobo? Lets hope so. The second was even more subtle, but when Kara show up for the first showdown with the Master Jailer she mentions that she thought Masks were big in that other City. Could this be a confirmation of the shared universe between Supergirl, Flash and Arrow? 

Ok now my thoughts on the show itself, this was the first episode all season that I enjoyed Jimmy Olsen. Its funny but it only took a moody Kara to cause my enjoyment level of this character to increase from a zero to maybe a 3. The episode itself focus more on drama and character development than the action itself. I think we are finally seeing some of the budget restraints of a television finally taking its toll on a Cgi heavy show. 

Even with some of the choppy editing and lack of actual action, and some strange fight scenes I give this episode Two Thumbs Up. Let us know what your thoughts of the episode were and leave your comments 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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Race - Box Office Review

Racism. Nazism. Athleticism. Olympians and bravery. The film "Race" based on the life of Gold Medal winning, American hero, Jessie Owens was everything I wanted to experience when I walked in the theater. This movie might not set box office records for dollars earned in February but Focus Features has delivered an emotionally moving film that highlights the American "can do" spirit of achieving the improbable. The success of this film rests on the performances director Stephen Hopkins was able to get from the cast. The story I knew and because of that I wanted actors who could transport me into this time of world history. Mission accomplished.

Jason Sudeikis was the main reason I saw this film. I was curious if he would have the range to deliver a performance worthy of the important themes in the movie. He did in my opinion. He plays the coach to Jessie Owens at Ohio State University. The scene where he and Stephan James (Jessie Owens) are arguing about the importance of Jessie going to the olympics was raw, truthful and powerful. When he yells at Jessie Owens that he doesn't care about race politics he only cares about Jessie winning gold medals and he's immediately cut off by Jessie yelling he's not black so of course it's not important to him... the theater fell silent. This film had many valuable ideas of race politics, friendships and respect. Bring some kleenex too. There's emotional moments strewn throughout.

The real prize of this film was Shanice Banton who plays Jessie's true love. I fell in love with her character so quickly that it made sense to see how much Jessie loved her. Her character was endearing, charming and genuine. Along with her, Jeremy Irons and William Hurt were equally entertaining. They provided the political challenges present with the olympic committee and the worlds response to Nazi Germany hosting the 1936 Olympics. The back and forth debate scene regarding America's potential stance in the games was fascinating. The pro's and con's being discussed on each side with equally matched passion took this film to the next level. It went from being a film about race in America to human rights on a global scale. 

"Race" is in theaters now! I give this film all the gold medals Jessie Owens actually won in real life. It's not a dynamic oscar award winning film but it delivers on capturing the spirit of the time in our history. The characters are all well acted, the story is told in a way that allows the audience to feel and think and who doesn't like seeing the Nazi's lose? Most of the world enjoys watching Hitler defeated so there's something for most everyone in this historical tale of the 1936 Olympics. There are even actual photos of Jessie Owens during the end credits sequence which were a nice final touch to a quality film. 

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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: Constantine the Hellblazer #9 - DC Comics (2016)

"The Art of the Deal"

Written by Ming Doyle & James Tynion IV
Art by Riley Rossmo

John Constantine and Papa Midnite are in Hell being tortured by Neron's minions.  They learn more of Neron's plans for New York City and are devising a plan to escape.

I am really enjoying this series.  I am really enjoying the scenery in the City of Dis inside Hell.  Riley Rossmo is able to draw some of the most sick and twisted imagery in comics right now.  What better place to do so than the worst place imaginable?

Ming DOyle and James Tynion IV keep you guessing as to where this story is heading.  Just when you may think things are coming to a head, there is a monkey wrench thrown into the plans.  The essence that is John Constantine is captured so well with this writing team.  There's no rush to make Constantine the every-guy hero.  They keep him flawed and arrogant and that's what has made this one of the surprise books for DC Comics and keeps me purchasing every month.  The cost of the book is only $2.99 per issue making it one of the best values in all of comics.

What are your thoughts on Constantine the Hellblazer?  What other comic books would you like Maskerpiece Theatre to review?  Leave your comments below or let us know through social media.

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Legends of Tomorrow Review: Season 1 Episode 5 "Fail-Safe"

Legends Of Tomorrow Season 1 Episode 5

“Fail-Safe”

Synopsis:

After some of the Legends are captured and thrown into a Russian gulag during the Height of the Cold war of 1986, Snart leads the team in an elaborate escape plan to free their comrade’s. However Rip gives Sara a secret side mission that could prove not only to be a liability, but fatal to the team.

Review:

With Rory, Stein, and Ray locked up and being tortured in order to get the secret to Firestorm, Rip and the rest of the team need to come up with a plan to save their friends. At first Rip excludes Jefferson and Kendra due to the risk of exposing them to Vandal Savage. Before going in to save them, Rip tells Sara that she may need to kill Stein in order to save the future.

In the end after a come to jesus talk from Snart, Sara decides against it and they were able to rescue the rest of the team.

Final Thoughts:

Another solid episode for Legends of Tomorrow, however with each passing week it is becoming harder to root for Rip. He has an ego, but seems to be stumbling out of control. At the same time its Snart that keeps stepping up and slowly becoming the center piece of the show.

There seems to be some good chemistry between Rory and Ray. In many ways this budding bromance is helping the elevate my dislike of Brandon Routh. 

This was a good conclusion to the two part episode, but in many ways the excitement for me is from the preview of the next episode. We are finally getting our Old Man Oliver, and maybe the badass Slade Wilson we deserve. Hopefully its the return of Manu Bennett as Deathstroke. 

I give this episode One Thumbs Up, it was solid but not great. Let us know what your thoughts of this episode were and leave a comment below.

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Arrow Review: Season 4 Episode 14 "Code of Silence"

Arrow Season 4 Episode 14

“Code of Silence”

Synopsis:

Team Arrow uncovers HIVE’s plan to take them out for good, Leading Lance to wonder if Donna is better off without him and Oliver to consider telling Felicity about his son.

Review:

With Oliver preparing for his first Debate for Mayor against Ruve Adams, Lance is attacked by members of HIVE who specialize in demolition. Team Arrow takes the fight to the demolition team, after the first two encounters with the team ending with the failure. Oliver and team learn that the next attack will be at the big debate. 

Final Thoughts:

An interesting episode of Arrow, the demolition seemed to be only place in order for the creators of Arrow to have an excuse to suite up Oliver and to provide some foreshadowing. Obviously with issues arising between Donna and Lance due to lies is directly tied to Felicity and Oliver and the fact that he has yet to tell Felicity about his son William. 

With an interesting twist for the show, it seems like the creators gave Oliver a win finally in his personal life with his debate victory of the wife of Darhk. It will be an interesting season 5 if Oliver become Mayor. 

I loved the nice little nod to Curtis Holts super hero personality of Mr Terrific when Oliver called him Terrific after coming up with some tech that may ultimately help Felicity walk again. Although i am not to sure how I feel about this possibility, it seem so soon for them to come up with a way to have her walk again.

Finally the ending, its seems now that Darhk has William, who he says they will be watch while his mother is busy. Does this ultimately mean she is in the grave? No one will truly know until we get to that episode. But it seems like all signs are pointing in that way.

Another solid episode, but ultimately only gets One Thumbs Up, as this is two episodes in a row which have had very limited Green Arrow scenes. What did you think of Episode 14? Leave your comments below.

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The Flash Review: Season 2 Episode 14 "Escape From Earth-2"

The Flash Season 2 Episode 14

“Escape From Earth-2”

Synopsis:

On Earth-2, the team asks for help from an unexpected source to find Zoom’s Lair, while on Earth-1, Caitlin tries to perfect Velocity-9 so Jay can stop the Geomancer.

Review:

With Barry caught and locked up in Zoom’s lair, Zoom is now out looking for Wells. In order to find the Lair of Zoom, Wells and Cisco use Earth-2’s Barry and Iris to track down Killer Frost. Once she has been captured she leads the team to where barry is being held and assist with keeping Zoom from Killing Jesse. The episode ends with Barry, Wells, Cisco and Jesse returning to Earth-1, but before the collapse of the remaining breach Zoom grabs Jay and pulls him back to Earth-2.

Final Thoughts:

Another stellar performance by Grant Gustin, his ability to portray the complete opposite qualities of both Barry’s has been some of the best acting on the show. 

We finally learned a little more about the man in the masked locked up in Zooms Lair. We learn that his name might be Jay, leaving us to wonder who Jay Garrick really is, Is Garrick just another man from Earth-2 working with Zoom? Is the real Garrick trapped with Zoom? so many questions, but I don’t believe that Garrick is Zoom as some of the internet community is predicting. 

So now with the breach closed and with Wells and Jesse back on earth one, they can work on a way to finally defeat Zoom. The only positive with the breach being closed is that the crossover with Supergirl is starting to look more like they will be sharing Earth-1 with each other. 

I give this episode Two Thumbs Up, Let us know your prediction of who Zoom might be and leave your comments below.

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The X-Files Review: Babylon

The X-Files: Babylon

Director & Writer: Chris Carter

Starring: David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, Mitch Pileggi, Lauren Ambrose, Robbie Amell

Synopsis: When an art gallery that’s showing potentially offensive artwork is bombed, Mulder and Scully seek some way to communicate with the comatose bomber in order to prevent a future attack. Meanwhile, a pair of younger FBI agents on the case push, Mulder and Scully to examine their own beliefs as Scully seeks answers from neuroscience and Mulder from mysticism.

The Good: This episode is as serious as it is weird. Chris Carter did a great job at leading everyone through this story with out giving away what was actually happening. I constantly found myself wondering. Is there more to this than it appears? Where these Terrorists or were these two framed? Is it possible there is something supernatural going on here? So many questions running through my head as the episodes went on.  While this episode was closer in humor to Mulder and Scully Meet the Were-Monster episode from two weeks ago, Babylon told a better story from an emotional perspective.  Babylon also provided something that a few of the episodes from this short season has not had, there was closer. That is something that has been lacking this season, it was nice to finally get an episode that had an ending, thank you Chris Carter! Also thank you for bringing back Walter Skinner. Mitch Pileggi always makes me smile! 

The Bad: Maybe I’m being selfish… no I know I’m being selfish, I just don’t want to say anything bad. Every week I find myself excited for a new episode of The X-Files. I keep waiting for the joy of new episodes to fade and end up disappointed by an episode, but it just hasn’t happened. The bad for me this week is that there is only one more episode. As it stands, we X-Files fans only get one more new episode. I have found myself enjoying these episodes just as much as I enjoyed the original series and frankly I’m just not ready to say goodbye again.

Final Thoughts: First of all David Duchovny tripping on “magic mushrooms” was priceless! Kudos to Duchovny for going out and having a good time! Also, possible spin off? Agents Miller and Einstein, or as I’m going to call them Mini-Mulder and Scully, were a breath of fresh air in this episode. Their characters felt like a trip down memory lane, a pleasant reminder of what Scully and Mulder use to be like. I would watch a show based on Miller and Einstein, but it would need its on legs to stand on, something different than the X-Files. If something comes out of this with Lauren Ambrose and Robbie Amell, I’m there ready to watch.

On a real world note, kudos to you Chris Carter for writing an honest script about a real issue going on in the world. The different perspectives between Mulder and Scully’s journey show how crazy this world really is. Mulder’s side showing the path of love and kindness and Scully’s the path of hate shows just how flawed this world really can be at times.

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