The Continuity Blog

Shutting Down...

2008-10-28T18:38:00.002-05:00

After two years of having both a Blogger and Wordpress version of this blog....I have decided to stay with Wordpress. Therefore, I will no longer be updating here. Please visit www.continuityblog.wordpress.com for new posts and updates

The Time-Traveling Starfish

2008-10-16T15:40:00.002-05:00

Booster Gold (Volume 2) #13
Written by Rick Remender
Art by Pat Olliffe

Rick Remender begins his fill-in run here and I liked it. I mean we don't really need anymore Starro takes over the world stories but at least it is a little fresh because of it involving Booster Gold and time travel. I also liked how Remender used elements from All-New Atom and his run in that series such as Lady Chronos. It seems that Booster may find out Rip is his son next issue. I really hope this isn't the case as I think that should have been kept a secret a bit longer then a few issues. The art was decent. And it was fun to see Booster and Goldstar arrive during the time Superman was fighting Zod. Nice use of continuity there.

Wallace

2008-10-16T15:24:00.002-05:00

Titans (Volume 2) #6
Written by Judd Winick
Art by Julian Lopez

Eh...this issue was okay. I feel that we didn't really need another Raven goes bad story. I like how she was defeated by her pure self though. The problem with Winick's writing is that he writes everyone with the same voice and manner of speaking. For example, why did Raven call the Flash Wally when traditionally she has always called him Wallace. Why does everyone make pop-culture references? That may be good for one character like Beast Boy doesn't work for someone like Starfire and Raven. At least the art is a lot better on this series. They haven't really established it yet....where are they staying? Are they on Titans Island? I don't even know. Anyways, I do look forward to seeing Jericho again next issue.

As I have Said Before, Batgirl Rules

2008-10-16T15:04:00.004-05:00

Batman and the Outsiders #12
Written by Frank Tieri
Art by Ryan Benjamin

Yes, Cassandra Cain is awesome! Didio respect her you big porn-mustached Jackass! I thought Tieri was leaning toward Batgirl betraying the team but no, she makes a mistake and the Outsiders disband but she demands that the team be brought back together. I like how Robin is worried about Batgirl in this issue because in the main bat-books it seems like they don't give a shit about her. This book is actually tying into RIP more then most of the tie-ins. In fact, the Black Glove appears in this issue threatening the Outsiders. I don't think Thunder will stay in the coma and I like how Grace speaks to God about it. And Remac's death doesn't bother me a bit, visually he was cool, but Salah was just annoying as hell. Tieri picked the right Outsider to kill off. I really liked this issue.

Secret Six 1 and 2

2008-10-12T22:08:00.006-05:00

Secret Six (Volume 3) #1
Written by Gail Simone
Art by Nicola Scott

Simon kicks off this series with one of the most disturbing images; a man choosing his family's death over his own. Then brings us to the Secret Six who are just as awesome and hilarious as ever. I love the talk about Catman going good and Deadshot making fun of it. I loved the inappropriate but meant well gesture of having the hooker dress as Knock-out. I can't wait for the next issue! Check this out people. This is Gail at her best!

Secret Six (Volume 3) #2 Written by Gail Simone
Art by Nicola Scott

The highlight of this issue has to be the dialogue between Batman and Catman. Simone's strengths as a writer who can write a serious story with great comic relief is shown here especially with Catman's obsession with the smell of Mexican food. She utilizes some pretty obscure villains in that last page spread and Nicola Scott is an amazing artist who needs to be doing more books for DC.

Not Impressed

2008-10-12T21:52:00.002-05:00

Batman Confidential #22
Written by Andrew Kreisberg
Art by Scott McDaniel

Ya....this is the writer that will be taking over Green Arrow and Black Canary soon and I hope this isn't the kind of stuff he will be writing over there. This issue was not well thought out. How can the Joker just convince a woman to kill herself? Did the woman have some history of mental illness? Did he know that? It just seems rudiculous to me. Also, the plot is a little too similar to the Dark Knight in terms of the Joker threatening relatives of people from a police station. Also, how many early Batman-Joker stories are we going to get in this series?! I am sick of it! I don't know maybe I am being too hard on this issue because last arc was sooo good and I always hated McDaniel's art but....not impressed.

More Kyle Please

2008-10-12T21:26:00.002-05:00

Green Lantern (Volume 4) #35
Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Ivan Reis

Hmm....this was a good issue. I mean nothing really exciting....Hal Jordan argues with the Guardians and some foreshadowing of the future. I am not sure what the point of this arc was over all but I know Johns had some reason for it. Reis's art was really good I liked it a lot. Really not much else to say except I am excitied for the future of this series. It just needs more Kyle Rayner!

JSA 7 - 19

2008-10-08T21:33:00.019-05:00

Justice Society of America #7
Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Dale Eaglesham

I am glad to be reviewing this series again as it is just so full of goodness I want to scream in happiness. This issue deals with the aftermath of Nathan Heywood becoming Citizen Steel. I do think it is kinda rude how the JSA kinda forces the whole super hero thing upon Nathan but all in all this was an uplifiting yet sad story of a man who has lost the ability to feel and lost his family. Starman's moments are of course fantastic as is the teamwork of the JSA.

Justice Society of America #8
Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Fernando Pasarin

I barely even noticed Eaglesham wasn't the artist the art and story was so good this issue. This issue dealt with the character of Liberty Belle and really got into the psyche of her character...dealing with her parents and her love for Hourman. The whole thing with not throwing away something just because it has a crack in it was perfect. Tremendous issue.

Justice Society of America #9
Written by Geoff Johns Art by Dale Eaglesham

While this was another fantastic issue, the last page reveal did not really excite me much; considering I am not a fan of Alex Ross or Kingdom Come but I trust Johns will do something good with the Superman of Earth-22. Oh and Johns knows how to utilize each member of a superhero team like no other writer in comics.

Justice Society of America #10
Written by Geoff Johns Art by Dale Eaglesham

I like that one has to not even read Kingdom Come to understand this as Kingdom Come is recapped throughout the issue. I am digging this even though I wish this series wasn't so Alex Ross-influenced.

Justice Society of America #11
Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Dale Eaglesham

I am getting exicted for all these new members! In this issue alone we get Superman of Earth-22 (who I like the contrast between his perception of New Earth and the Earth-2 Superman's perception), Judomaster, and Mr. America. I wonder why Judomaster is so different from her appearences in Birds of Prey though. I am pretty sure she spoke english there.

Justice Society of America #12
Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Dale Eaglesham

Nice! I am always excited for new members and this issue was packed full of 'em. Amazing Man - making the original a hero of the civil rights movement was brilliant and the new one helping out in New Orleans after Katrina was brilliant as well. Lightning - You have to wonder why Black Lightning has these daughters he never mentions. It is unclear in this issue - but aren't Black Lightning and his wife sitll divorced. Visually Lightning is cool as hell though. Lance is probably the least exciting of the bunch - I mean his Lance arm is cool but the whole no costume thing kinda kills it. I like that he is Roosevelt's Great Grandson though. Roosevelt you could say is a found of the JSA. I don't know how I feel about Lance mentioning there are 300 other metahumans in the military because I don't really like the idea that metahumans are extremely common. It takes away from their specialty.

Justice Society of America #13
Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Dale Eaglesham

This was another good issue but it was a little more Kingdom Come-Centric then I would have liked and not enough JSA action. I like that Jakeem Thunder is crushing on Lightning. They would make a great couple!

Justice Society of America #14
Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Dale Eaglesham

This is the kind of issue that shows how well Johns writes teams. Not only does all twenty-something members get a word in in this issue, but they are all utilized well in the fight scene.

Justice Society of America #15
Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Dale Eaglesham

The fight with the false Gog continues this issue with great character moments sprinkled in - such as Lightning's aggression over not being able to drive a car to Citizen Steel's declaration of his "thing"- the art and writing in this issue was fantastic. The upcoming preview was cool but didn't get me as excited as the first issue's one did.

Justice Society of America #16
Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Fernando Pasarin

I can't tell if Gog is bluffing or not, but he does have the creepiest yet warmest smile of any giant gods I know (:
Pasarin is the perfect subsitute for Eaglesham, their work is so similar.I hope Damage's face isn't fixed for good. I like his current costume.

Justice Society of America #17
Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Fernando Pasarin

Awww I really like Gog! I like his smile and his kindness. I still get the feeling he can't be trusted but he is at least fooling me into thinking he could be a good guy. Another fantastic issue. I hope Starman isn't permanently cured, he is a lot more interesting as a loon.

Justice Society of America #18
Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Dale Eaglesham

I am excited for next issue as we get a look at the Earth-2 Michael Holt in this issue. Hawkman is right...it might be a good idea to let them stay as trees but no I do not think he should be allowed to just kill them. I get the feeling that Gog's "miracles" are not really blessings at all.

Justice Society of America #19
Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Dale Eaglesham

At first I thought that Johns had gone to the cliche we are going to fight eachother over something completely stupid thing but luckily he saved itself by Alan Scott declaring the JSA doesn't fight itself. Awesome. I didn't want Johns going all Winick on us all of a sudden. Anyways, another fine issue but this is Gog thing is dragging out a little long. I am more excited about the Power Girl stuff and look forward to next issue. Oh and it's great to see Black Adam back.

Heartless

2008-10-08T21:05:00.003-05:00

Detective Comics #849
Written by Paul Dini
Art by Dustin Nguyan

I kind of have a problem with Doctor Mid-Nite knowin that Selina is the love of Batman's life. Why would Batman ever tell that to him? Is this common knowledge in the DCU? Anyways this was a good issue...not as exciting as last issue but good none the less. Hush gettin plastic surgery to look like Bruce Wayne is a smart move on Hush's part and I like the continued flashbacks to Elliot's life. Dini has brought more to the table with this character then Loeb ever did. The artwork in the flashbacks is great but I kinda miss Don Kramer's stuff for the main story. The Joker getting so excited as he watched Batman beat the brutal crap out of the Scarecrow was fantastic. I love those types of Joker moments. I hope Selina gets her heart back soon though.

Wonder Woman 12 - 25

2008-10-03T11:01:00.023-05:00

Wonder Woman (Volume 3) #12
Written by J. Torres
Art by Paco Diaz

Oh will Amazons Attack never end. The god-awful mini-series spills over into this issue as Wonder Woman and Nemesis look for the missing Sarge Steel. Of course this issue wasn't bad though, Everyman is always a fun villain.

Wonder Woman (Volume 3) #13
Written by J. Torres
Art by Julian Lopez

Now this was more like it. A very sweet issue that while still dealing with the Amazons Attack aftermath, it is not burdened by it one bit. I liked seeing the JSA wondering about Hippolyta, it's easy to forget that she was once a member of their team and they WOULD react to her coming back from the dead.

Wonder Woman (Volume 3) #14
Written by Gail Simone
Art by Terry Dodson

Gail Simone's first issue may not have completely blown me away, but it was pretty damn good...especially when compared to the previous runs on this series. Bringing back Etta Candy is genius, having female gorillas live in Diana's apartment is genius, and Nazis attacking Themyscira is genius. I think we can say Simone is a genius.

Wonder Woman (Volume
3) #15
Written by Gail Simone
Art by Terry Dodson

I like the idea of Wonder Woman going to the different Pantheons of Gods seeking help and I especially like that she ended up receiving that help from an obscure pantheon - the Hawaiian Gods. Very awesome. Oh and can I saw Diana's transformation into Wonder Woman at the beginning was beautiful. Go Dodsons!

Wonder Woman (Volume
3) #16
Written by Gail Simone
Art by Terry Dodson and Ron Randall

This issue was sligtly decompressed as it was essentially just one big battle between Wonder Woman and her gorillas, and the Nazi on Themyscara. Although it wasn't bad, I was kinda expecting more.

Wonder Woman (Volume
3) #17
Written by Gail Simone
Art by Terry Dodson and Ron Randall

This concludes Simone's first story arc on this title and I must say it was a great ending. The entire thing could have been an issue less but it was still a good arc. And Simone had Plastic Man in it! Yay! I also like how Simone is setting up these mysteries in advance...effectively creating a slow build that a long term writer should do.

Wonder Woman (Volume
3) #18
Written by Gail Simone
Art by Bernard Chang

Haha I did not know this but Etta Candy's catchphrase is Woo Woo and Simone uses it in the final page of this issue in a very modern and hilarious way. The art took some getting used to after the Dodsons but it wasn't bad. I am not sure how I feel about Diana courting Nemesis, we will see how it goes I guess.

Wonder Woman (Volume
3) #19
Written by Gail Simone
Art by Bernard Chang

This short story arc was very good. I liked how the Ichor is set up to be threats in the future and Etta Candy is a great sidekick for Diana. I am not sure how they made the Khund girl a Green Lantern, did one of the GLs die. I thought someone only becomes a GL when a previous one dies? And doesn't the ring choose the person?

Wonder Woman (Volume
3) #20
Written by Gail Simone
Art by Aaron Lopestri

Eh...I can't really get excited about this arc. Wonder Woman in a sword and sorcery world does nothing for me. The only moments I really enjoyed were the stuff with Etta Candy.

Wonder Woman (Volume
3) #21
Written by Gail Simone
Art by Aaron Lopestri

Other then the scenes outside of the otherworldly plane (the stuff with Nemsis and the stuff with Hippolyta), I found this pretty boring. Which isn't Simone's fault as much as I am just uninterested in this kind of story.

Wonder Woman (Volume
3) #22
Written by Gail Simone
Art by Aaron Lopestri

Ditto, but it is good to see Donna again in this title.

Wonder Woman (Volume
3) #23
Written by Gail Simone
Art by Aaron Lopestri

The moments between Donna and Nemsis were fantastic this issue but I am still glad this arc is over.

Wonder Woman (Volume
3) #24
Written by Gail Simone
Art by Bernard Chang

Now this is more like it. Nemesis meets with Hippolyta who acts like a typical mother meeting her daughter's new boyfriend, including asking him if they have had sex and when they plan on having babies! Fantastic! The movie stuff was cool especially since we get to see some of Diana's past reenacted innacurately. I look forward to seeing Wonder Woman kick the Queen of Fables' ass. And having Diana say she no longer has self-doubts just shows how far she has come since the beginning of this series when she was annoyingly full of self-doubts. Thanks Gail! (:

Wonder Woman (Volume
3) #25
Written by Gail Simone
Art by Bernard Chang

This was a pretty good issue...I especially liked the end with the little girls. I think more little girls should be looking up to Wonder Woman....we need a good Wonder Woman movie soon. I like how Simone really expressed her opinion about the Wonder Woman movie in this issue....that we should wait for a really good one instead of getting a crappy one now and I agree with that but it would be nice to have a good one soon. I guess you can't get your cake and eat it too.

Two-Face Is One Messed Up Dude

2008-10-03T01:03:00.002-05:00

Nightwing #149
Written by Peter J. Tomasi
Art by Don Kramer

Okay this issue was an awesome look at the psyche of Two-Face....disturbing but awesome. Probably one of the best issues featuring the character in a long time. What a psycho. Harvey hired Nightwing to protect Carol from himself! And then freaks out when he finds out he killed her. What an awesome moment! Made even better by the great artwork of Don Kramer. The other villains are just hallucinations but they were great characterizations of those villains, I especially liked the Joker talking about killing Jason Todd....It reminds me of how unfortunate it is that they brought Jason back to life. The moments between Dick and his hallucinations of his parents was cool because it is easy to forget sometimes that Dick went through the same trajedy that Brucewent through. I also liked how Dick mentions he misses having Batman by his side sometimes. Fantastic issue...pick this up people, especially if you are a fan of Two-Face.

Introducing Linda Lang

2008-10-03T00:34:00.002-05:00

Supergirl (Volume 5) #34
Written by Sterling Gates
Art by Jamal Igle

Well this was a great start to Steling Gate's run on this series. Don't get me wrong, Kelly Puckett's run on this series was good, heck I even liked Joe Kelly's run...but they never really got around to giving Supergirl a life outside the "S".... and Gates does it in one issue. The idea of Supergirl working as Linda Lang at the Daily Planet, "niece" of Lana, is great and works to make her more involved in the Superman stories. Lana's hair is miscolored blonde in this for some reason and that was annoying but that's beside the point. Now, the next thing Gates needs to do is have Igle design a new costume for her. Look at thing, it's been what four years and she is still wearing that trashy costume. Speaking of Igle, the art here is very good and I am glad he is on this title. I can't say that I am really looking forward to the whole "New Krypton" storyline coming up....honestly Kryptonians don't excite me sorry but since Geoff Johns is spearheading it I think it might turn out well.

Superman 664 - 680

2008-09-30T03:54:00.024-05:00

Superman #664
Written by Kurt Busiek
Art by Carlos Pacheco

This was a good issue but I am glad this whole Arion storyline is over. It was getting really boring....Squad K was a great concept and I am glad Busiek did not write Superman as resenting them.

Superman #665
Written by Kurt Busiek
Art by Rick Leonardi

Eh this was an okay issue spotlighting how Jimmy Olsen met Superman. I don't care much about the character so this was only okay for me. Not much to say otherwise.

Superman #666
Written by Kurt Busiek
Art by Walter Simonson

This was an awesome issue. Krypton's Hell's demons coming after Superman is a clever idea and a nice little one-shot story. I especially liked the whole Superman being annoyed with people in his 'dream' so he just kills them. Made me laugh...although I am glad that it wasn't really him.

Superman #667
Written by Kurt Busiek
Art by Carlos Pacheco

Damn...I thought all of this Arion crap was over!! I guess not...as this continues that storyline. The art is good, but I still don't dig this story that much.

Superman #668
Written by Kurt Busiek
Art by Rick Leonardi

Now this was the best issue of this series in a while. It was great to se Robin and Chris Kent meet and how Superman is aware that Batman is always spying on him. I also can't wait to finally meet the third Kryptonian.

Superman #669
Written by Kurt Busiek
Art by Rick Leonardi

At first I Was a little dissapointed to see that the Third Kryptonian was an old woman but I ended up really liking the idea that this space-faring adventurer just wants to settle down and rest in her old age and that is why she has avoided contact with Superman. She doesn't want to be a hero and I like that. Kristin Wells wasn't an actual Kryptonian pre-crisis and she had an awesome costume that I think her current suit is based on. They should bring back the original costume if she ever does decide to become Superwoman.

Superman #670
Written by Kurt Busiek
Art by Rick Leonardi

Now this was a great issue of Superman! Action, Character moments, and all around a good time! I wish Busiek wasn't leaving this title so soon at the same time more of his issues should have been like this! It was great to see the entire "Superman Family" working together and I liked all the set up for the stuff coming up this year with "New Krypton". Busiek must have originally supposed to be part of that storyline but left due to Trinity. Unless he set it up just for the editor and on Geoff Johns's behalf.

Superman #671
Written by Kurt Busiek
Art by Peter Vale

This was an okay start to this arc dealing with an "insect queen". Not much to say...it was really just set up.

Superman #672
Written by Kurt Busiek
Art by Peter Vale

Insect Queens always make good villains lol and I don't know why Chris Kent's watch blew up but I look forward to next issue.

Superman #673
Written by Kurt Busiek
Art by Peter Vale

Eh this was okay....nothing really great, I thought the stuff about Superman understanding Chris's loneliness was stupid. Clark was a baby when Krypton exploded! Why do so many writers write as if he has some strong emotional attachment to the planet. Earth is home...it's plain and simple. Despite Donner's obsession with Krypton, it is not THAT important.

Superman #674
Written by Kurt Busiek
Art by Renato Guedes

This was another decent issue from Busiek that brings an old Justice League villain back. The stuff I am more interested in is the stuff with Mon-El. Nice art as well.

Superman #675
Written by Kurt Busiek
Art by Renato Guedes

Busiek's final issue on the title wraps up the whole what if civilization collapses plot-thread by introducing the idea of Superman creating a library full of human knowledge. I like the idea and it is a great concept. Busiek still writes the character in Trinity and that is a really good series. More people should be reading it.

Superman #676
Written by Vito Delsante
Art by Julian Lopez

Okay was that supposed to be Connor Kent at the end....apparently cloned and in stasis long before his debut? I think so....nice touch. This was obviously supposed to be in Superman Confidential but it makes for a nice fill-in. It was kinda bland though and I am kind of sick of Solomon Grundy right now.

Superman #677
Written by James Robinson
Art by Renato Guedes

James Robinson begins his run on Superman with this issue and I have to say it's decent. I mean I am not jumping for joy about it but it is pretty good. Atlas seems like a worthy opponent for Superman and I like how Superman says that he beat the traditon of Superhero relationships by staying with Lois. **Cough Cough I am looking at you Spider-Man and Marvel Comics**

Superman #678
Written by James Robinson
Art by Renato Guedes

This issue was just confusing. I am not sure if I really get Atlas's origin. Where is he from? Why is he so strong? And why does Jimmy keep talking about Superman's breakfast? Weird.....

Superman #679
Written by James Robinson
Art by Renato Guedes

Not enough happened in this issue to make it an issue. Superman fights Atlas and then Supergirl does and Krypto appeared. Albeit this is the most excited I have ever gotten about Krypto appearing anyways. Maybe because we get to see his thoughts. I think it is a little out of character for Lois to be jealous of Zatanna. So far Robinson's run has not been as good as I expected.

Superman #680
Written by James Robinson
Art by Renato Guedes

We still know next to nothing about Atlas at the end of this but I suspect that Robinson will bring this up at some later point. The highlight of this issue was Superman's talk with Zachary Zatara and Krypto thinking "happy" at the very end which made me smile. Robinson actually made me like the idea of Krypto....which is a rare thing. This arc could have been much shorter though.

Teen Titans 50 - 63

2008-09-25T06:23:00.023-05:00

Teen Titans (Volume 3) #50 Written by Sean McKeever, Geoff Johns, Marv Wolfman, and Todd DeZago Art by Randy, Mike McKone, George Perez, and Todd Nauck

This was a fantastic anniversary issue and a real treat to any fans of the Titans. We look back at different era of the titans history as well as reminisce on the life of Bart Allen, all along setting up the new arc and the return of the Titans of Tommorrow...John's best arc on this book. So I am glad they are coming back. McKeever's run has started off with a bang! Don't you just love that cover!

Teen Titans (Volume 3) #51
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Ale Garza

Not sure what to think of this...it's not bad and I like the hints to the future of the Teen Titans...and the idea that Bart and Connor will be alive in the future. But I think the art makes it less enjoyable....I really miss McKone and Tony Daniel's work on this title.

Teen Titans (Volume 3) #52
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Jamal Igle

Awesome ending spread there...it is fun to see these glimpses of possible future titans. This is actually the second time I have read this arc and I must say it reads much better this time around. Not to mention Igle's art is fantastic this issue.

Teen Titans (Volume 3) #53
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Eddy Barrows

The Titans Army is pretty bad ass....I love that Cassandra Cain is the Batwoman of the future and that Misfit is Huntress (and still yelling Dark Vengeance!) but the coloring was quite off on her hair, along with Aquawoman's. Anyways, there have been way too many artists on this one arc.

Teen Titans (Volume 3) #54
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Eddy Barrows, Joe Prado, and Greg Tocchini

Okay who else is really looking forward to a Miss Martian/Robin romance. Much better then Wonder Girl and Robin which seems kindve incestuous to me and it would parallel the relationship between Starfire and Nightwing. Anyways, this was a nice ending to this issue. I like that Blue Beetle, Supergirl, and the Ravager are the ones who will one day oppose the Titans Army. I have to say this arc was not as good as John's Titans of Tomorrow arc....but it was still well-written and fun.

Teen Titans (Volume 3) #55

Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Jamal Igle

I liked this in-between story. Robin and Wonder Girl end their romance....thank God. And Supergirl leaves the team, sad because I was actually liking her on the team. Poor Kid Devil is treated like crap throughout this issue...even by Robin. I wish Ingle was the regular artist on this title.

Teen Titans (Volume 3) #56
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Eddy Barrows

Okay I don't know why Robin and everyone are being so mean to Kid Devil...it seems kinda out of character. I am intrigued by the Terror Titans and this issue had a lot of funny moments, especailly when Kid Devil throws the party at the tower. McKeever's run on this title is seriously underrated.

Teen Titans (Volume 3) #57
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Eddy Barrows

I like that Ravager is worried about Kid Devil....but Wonder Girl really comes off as a bitch in this issue. I mean she has a right to not completely trust Rose but come on. The ending was pretty crazy....I am not sure what happened to the tower.

Teen Titans (Volume 3) #58
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Carlos Rodriguez

I really liked the art this issue but why the hell can't Eddy Barrows stay for more then a couple issues! This story was great because it features mostly Miss Martian who really deserves more attention as she is a great character. She has the battling her dark side aspect of Raven and the naivety of Starfire that makes her the perfect fit for the Titans. Good issue.

Teen Titans (Volume 3) #59
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Eddy Barrows

Clock King is pretty scary and the Dark Side Club is just as so. This issue was good but I feel this arc is a little long altogether. I think Barrows's art reached an all-time high with this issue. Very nice stuff.
Teen Titans (Volume 3) #60
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Eddy Barrows

Looks like Ravager is leaving the team...no thanks to Wonder Girl's bitchiness....although the more I think about it the more I realize I would be hesitant about having a known killer on the team as well. This Terror Titans arc was good and it's always fun to see new villains introduced for the Titans but it ran a little long.

Teen Titans (Volume 3) #61
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Carlos Rodriguez

This was a sweet issue highlighting the relationship between Blue Beetle and welll....Red Devil. Kid Devil switches his name to Red Devil in this issue. I am not sure that I like the name...Kid Devil just flows better but I can deal with it. I like the bond formed between the two reluctant team mates. Good stuff.

Teen Titans (Volume 3) #57
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Eddy Barrows

Okay that was just fucking incredibly disturbing!!! I expected a sweet story about a cute god instead I got that before he transformed and slaughtered Wendy and Marvin. Not going to lie, I was pissed after reading this the first time. Miss Martian leaves the team and Wendy and Marvin who have been totally underused are now killed. What the hell right?! This seems like a Dan Didio idea to me. But on the second read-through, it's actually pretty good and I am hoping McKeever has a good reason for killing off Wendy and Marvin, if they are in fact dead.

Teen Titans (Volume 3) #63
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Eddy Barrows and Allan Goldman

This issue was very decompressed...I don't feel like much happened accept Bombshell fought the military and the Teen Titans and Wonder Girl has a headache. What the hell! I am glad to see that Wendy is alive, I wish I could say the same for Marvin though. I have the feeling they are setting Wendy up to become a metahuman/hero. I am not sure. Miss Martian is on the cover for some reason despite not being o nthe team anymore.

Birds of Prey 110 - 122

2008-09-20T23:20:00.002-05:00

Birds of Prey #110
Written by Tony Bedard
Art by Nicola Scott

It really doesn't feel like Simone has left this title as Bedard continues the great writing that she did on this title. I liked Oracle's references to past Birds "try-outs" and who knew that Black Orchid could even be used in the regular DCU anymore with the unfortunate Vertigo embargo. Oh and by the way, in case you didn't notice, this issue shows how much The Huntress kicks ass.

Birds of Prey #111
Written by Tony Bedard
Art by Jason Orfalas

These are some good Done-in-one issues that Bedard is writing. This issue has Oracle attending a nerd convention where she runs into the Calculator. I like how he still thinks she isn't Oracle and believes now that all the nerds worked together to be Oracle. Oh....that's classic.

Birds of Prey #112
Written by Tony Bedard
Art by David Cole

This was a fun story spotlighting Lady Blackhawk, who goes on a cross country road trip just to put up a picture of Big Barda in a memorial for "fallen heroes" at the Edwards Air Force Base. Very sweet and fun.

Birds of Prey #113
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Nicola Scott

Wow, that was a big disaster. Was it completely Misfit's fault or did I miss something? McKeever's run begins with a literal bang....but a distrubing one at that. Superman is understandably upset.

Birds of Prey #114
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Nicola Scott

I don't know how I feel about Oracle being such a bitch to Misfit, I mean sure Misfit screwed up and she is Misfit's guardian, but what makes Black Alice a better choice for the Birds over Misfit?

Birds of Prey #115
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Nicola Scott

So if Black Alice can steal Misfit's powers, that means that Misfit's powers have to be magic-based, correct? I like the whole Killer Shark thing....but in this one I am more angry at Misfit then Barbara. She should have let them get stuff done instead of starting a catfight.

Birds of Prey #116
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Nicola Scott

Yay for Platinum Flats! One of my favorite things about the DCU, if not THE favorite thing, is the fictional cities. Platinum Flats looks really awesome, it really is a city for the 21st century and not just another New York stand in. The Killer Shark was fun too. And I am glad that Barbara changed her mind about Black Alice.

Birds of Prey #117
Written by Sean McKeever
Art by Nicola Scott

Yay! The Birds are moving to Platinum Flats! The Metahuman Maphia was really cool and it should be fun to see the Birds face off against them again. I did not see the whole Tabby thing coming at the end either.

Birds of Prey #118
Written by Tony Bedard
Art by Nicola Scott

Okay Granny Goodness's death was quite disgusting....ewww. Anyways, Bedard begins his run as permanent writer this issue which is exciting cause I so liked his fill-in run before McKeever came on. I don't know how I feel about Black Alice and Misfit being related though, seems kinda forced.

Birds of Prey #119
Written by Tony Bedard
Art by Nicola Scott

I like how Oracle's company is Clocktower Systems....and nod to the old Gotham Clock Tower she used to work out of. Platinum Flats is a reall cool locale and I can't wait to see it develop. I really could care less about seeing Black Canary and Manhunter fight though.

Birds of Prey #120
Written by Tony Bedard
Art by Michael O'Hare

Haha I did not expect to see the Joker at the end of this. I wonder about Infinity though, who is she? There are so many great female characters to be used in the DCU, why create a new one? And will she stay a member of the team? The new artist wasn't half-bad either. The whole Oracle spying on Black Canary thing kinda bugs me though.

Birds of Prey #121
Written by Tony Bedard
Art by Michael O'Hare

Okay...well...the whole outcast in high school thing has been done way too many times (plus who's high school is actually like that) but somehow the idea that the geeks are the popular ones in Platinum Flats is a fresh take. The Joker's appearence hear is hilarious, especially when he shoots the annoying Wizkid in the head. I am kind of sick of Black Alice though.

Birds of Prey #122
Written by Tony Bedard
Art by Michael O'Hare

That was an intense ending if not a little creepy. This was a good issue. Birds of Prey is definitely as fun as a read under Bedard as it was under Simone, if not more so cause we have Platinum Flats now!

BATO 8 - 11

2008-09-19T02:05:00.010-05:00

Batman and the Outsiders (Volume 2) #8
Written by Chuck Dixon
Art by Julian Lopez

God I love this series....Lopez's art is just plain gorgeous in this issue and I am actually really liking Remac....not the stupid annoying guy that controls him, but he is a cool looking hero himself.

Batman and the Outsiders (Volume 2) #9
Written by Chuck Dixon
Art by Julian Lopez

Julian Lopez's work is extremely underrated. This is some great work. I especially liked the detail put into Looker's mansion...and I am not even an art person. Anyways, it was fun to see Looker again, she is a lot less annoying then when she was with the Outsiders.

Batman and the Outsiders (Volume 2) #10
Written by Chuck Dixon
Art by Ryan Benjamin

Sadly this is Dixon's last issue on this series and he doesn't even get to finish off his whole arc with the thing on the moon. The idea of a parasite that gives metahuman powers is an interesting one. The opening page was particularly terrifying for an opening page....but I miss having Lopez on this title. I look forward to seeing how the crossover with Batman RIP goes.

Batman and the Outsiders (Volume 2) #11
Written by Frank Tieri
Art by Ryan Benjamin

Well I am happy to say that this wasn't a bad issue. I liked how all the villains ar Arkham are singing "Ding Dong the Witch is dead" because Batman is missing haha. I also like how out of all the RIP tie-ins, this one was the most tied in...even referencing more events then just the Black Glove's existence. I just wish the other Outsiders would stop picking on Batgirl....cause they SHOULD listen to her she is Cassandra Cain and she is kick-ass.

Donna's Inexplicable Costume Change

2008-09-19T02:05:00.009-05:00

Titans (Volume 2) #5
Written by Judd Winick
Art by Julian Lopez

Well I have to say that was...um....kinda odd. Raven's turn to the dark side seemed kind of abrupt, there didn't seem to be hint of it in previous issues like there was during the Wolfman/Perez days. I like that Winick is acknowledging the relationship between Beast Boy and Raven that Johns set up though. And I liked the scene between Starfire and Nightwing, I know exactly what Starfire means when she speaks of the two different kinds of love. Cyborg's new legs are pretty cool looking and I think they are a refreshing change. Lopez is a good artist and I hope he stays with the title. I wonder why he changed Donna's costume back? Why did Donna have a new costume for four issues and then change back and why did no one say anything to her about it? The first scene was a little confusing, why did they girl wake Raven up in the middle of sleeping? Does Raven go to a boarding school or something?

Some Changes

2008-09-16T21:08:00.001-05:00

I would just like to announce that I will be discontinuing reviews of the Spirit. I have a lot of comics to catch up on, and so little time. The Spirit, unfortunately, has had little connection with the DC Universe so far. In fact, I am sure by this point it is safe to say he does not exist within the DCU. Therefore, I will be dropping the series from my reviews.

Also, I will not be reviewing Infinity Inc. I liked the series but it came and went during a very busy time in my life.

Booster Gold 2 - 12

2008-09-07T18:45:00.021-05:00

Booster Gold (Volume 2) #2
Written by Geoff Johns and Jeff Katz
Art by Dan Jurgens

The second issue of this amazing series is just as good as the first. We see Booster Gold preventing Sinestro from meeting Guy Gardner way before he should and therefore cleaning up some other holes in the timeline. I love the interconnectedness of seemingly unrelated events in this series....it reminds me of the movie, Butterfly Effect, which I enjoyed a lot. One thing that confused me is they showed Dan Garett getting the scarab and becoming Blue Beetle in 1939 when I am pretty sure he is considered to debut in the Silver Age. Continuity error or mistake by me?

Booster Gold (Volume 2) #3
Written by Geoff Johns and Jeff Katz
Art by Dan Jurgens

Haha seeing Booster Gold drunk is worth the price tag alone. Westerns don't interest me in the least bit, so I really didn't care for this issue as much the last two but it was still good.

Booster Gold (Volume 2) #4
Written by Geoff Johns and Jeff Katz
Art by Dan Jurgens

Supernova is reavealed to be Booster's Dad this issue - I do not know much about his Dad, but he sure is an asshole. I am excited for the next issue, but I know there is no way that they are going to save Barbara Gordon the fate of being paralyzed.

Booster Gold (Volume 2) #5
Written by Geoff Johns and Jeff Katz
Art by Dan Jurgens

This was a particular powerful issue dealing with the rules of Time Travel. So apparently Rip sent Booster back to save Barbara because he wanted to teach him a lesson. No matter how hard Booster tries Barbara Gordon will always be shot and paralyzed by the Joker. I like that because it is definitely one of those pivotal DCU moments that should never be undone.

Booster Gold (Volume 2) #6
Written by Geoff Johns and Jeff Katz
Art by Dan Jurgens

Hmmm I don't know if I like the idea of Ted Kord being a Time Cop with Booster but we will see. I doubt that Ted is sticking around for very long...something fishy is going on here. It was fun to relive Countdown to Infinite Crisis....probably one of the most exciting times to be a DC reader.

Booster Gold (Volume 2) #0
Written by Geoff Johns and Jeff Katz
Art by Dan Jurgens

Crossing over with Zero Hour fourteen years after the crossover ended is just awesome and totally fits in with the time traveling aspect of this series. Granted, the crossover was brief, it was still pretty damn cool. I never read Zero Hour...maybe I should check it out sometime.

Booster Gold (Volume 2) #7
Written by Geoff Johns and Jeff Katz
Art by Dan Jurgens

I love how these stories are a real treat for long time DC fans yet are easily accessible by newbies (but unlike most bloggers, I could care less about accessibility....people should do their homework). Seeing Catherine Colbert and the London Embassy was really cool. I can't wait for next issue.

Booster Gold (Volume 2) #8
Written by Geoff Johns and Jeff Katz
Art by Dan Jurgens

I had no idea that Pantha didn't have an origin. I guess that this is Johns's atonement for writing her death in Infinte Crisis. The Blue and the Gold together are a great combination. Can't wait to see the JLI back too.

Booster Gold (Volume 2) #9
Written by Geoff Johns and Jeff Katz
Art by Dan Jurgens

Wow if Ted Kord hadn't of died things would be really fucked up. I hope Booster is learning his lesson becaus

Booster Gold (Volume 2) #10
Written by Geoff Johns and Jeff Katz
Art by Dan Jurgens

So it was Mister Mind behind all of this - that is one crafty worm. Anyways, I am glad that Ted isn't staying in the book....and he is making the right choice but it was very sad to see him say his last goodbyes to Booster. Oh and could the Black Beetle be Paco in the future?
Booster Gold (Volume 2) #1,000,000
Written by Geoff Johns and Jeff Katz
Art by Dan Jurgens

What a perfect way to cap off Johns and Katz's run on this title. Booster gets his sister back, Batman finally gives Booster some respect, and things are looking up for Booster Gold. Gotta love the last page of this issue. Johns and Katz's did a great run on this book and I look forward to Jurgen's run.

Booster Gold (Volume 2) #11
Written by Chuck Dixon
Art by Dan Jurgens

While some of the time travel stuff in this issue could give one a head ache, it was a nice follow up to the Johns-Katz run and continues what they started. There are some continuity blips such as I am sure Booster has been to the batcave before in Infinite Crisis, but that doesn't really matter too much. It was kind of shocking to see Alfred just blatantly shoot someone though.

Booster Gold (Volume 2) #12
Written by Chuck Dixon
Art by Dan Jurgens

This issue kinda confused me. I may have to read it again. As always though, the art is amazing and the dialogue is fantastic. I don't know how I feel about going back to this period in Batman's career since well, it's been done a lot. Elongated Man's surprise appearance should be fun though.

Batman Confidential 9 - 21

2008-09-07T02:37:00.032-05:00

Batman Confidential #9 Written by Michael Green Art by Denys Cowan

Okay I really hope this is a joke....I mean there is no way in hell Batman would order a hit on the Joker. Are you kidding me? If it is, this story is crap. I hope not because I do generally like Green as a comic writer. I do think the idea of Joker's smile being created by the Batarangs to be pretty clever though.

Batman Confidential #10 Written by Michael Green
Art by Denys Cowan

Okay well I am glad that Batman changed his mind at the last second, but it is still hard to swallow that Batman would have ordered the hit in the first place. The joker's emergence from the waters was a very nice scene, I especially liked the bunny on the moon part haha.

Batman Confidential #11 Written by Michael Green
Art by Denys Cowan

Still don't understand how this fits in continuity but oh well, let's just imagine this is another one of the Joker's retelling of his possible origin. It was okay issue....really the only good parts were the Joker's lines. Batman's love for Lorna Shore just seems forced and lame.

Batman Confidential #12 Written by Michael Green
Art by Denys Cowan

So the Joker's origin concludes with this issue in which Bruce ends it with Lorna and defeats the Joker for the first time. Eh....it was okay. Nothing special.

Batman Confidential #13 Written by Tony Bedard
Art by Rags Morales

Okay Bedard is a great writer and Morales is an amazing artist, but I did not expect this to as good as it was! This is by far the best arc of this series within just one issue. I want to know more about the Wrath and I love how this is not set in Year One but around the time Robin became Nightwing. There are just too many stories set in Year One that this was very refreshing.

Batman Confidential #14 Written by Tony Bedard
Art by Rags Morales

Hmmm.....so is the ending hinting that this Wrath was the original Wrath's sidekick? I like the Wrath...he is a way cooler anti-Batman then Killer Moth ever was. Why no one has brought him back before this is beyond me. Kudos for Bedard for doing so. Oh and I do not even have to mention since this is Morales but the art is gorgeous in this issue.

Batman Confidential #15
Written by Tony Bedard
Art by Rags Morales

The original Wrath's origin is revealed this issue and it's anti-Batman to the max. But it is not lame silver agey at all, but really clever. I am really enjoying this arc. And you gotta love the Wrath-mobile.

Batman Confidential #16
Written by Tony Bedard
Art by Rags Morales

This concludes the Wrath storyline and we find out the new Wrath's origin. Very clever stuff. I like that the original Wrath kidnapped these children and most of them got killed. Kinda reminds me of All-Star Batman (:. I highly reccomend everyone pick up with this arc.

Batman Confidential #17
Written by Fabian Nicieza
Art by Kevin Maguire

Haha what an expected turn for the original Batgirl's first meeting with Catwoman. Barbara has to follow her into a hedonist club - naked times for the Cat and the Bat! Although, I have to say, from what I have seen on TV....nudists are never as attractive as these people. The art here is great since it's Maguire but some of their facial expressions are too much like they are taking dumps (:

Batman Confidential #18
Written by Fabian Nicieza
Art by Kevin Maguire

This was hilarious....Catwoman and Batman fighting it out naked. It must hurt to get kicked like that hehe. The scene in the junkyard with Catwoman and the dog was fantastic as well. This series has really picked up with the Wrath arc and this.

Batman Confidential #19
Written by Fabian Nicieza
Art by Kevin Maguire

This issue sees Batgirl and Catwoman working together against the Russian mob after they steal the notebook. The banter between Selina and Barbara is hilarious, even though they aren't fighting anymore. And I love the inner monologues of both characters.

Batman Confidential #20
Written by Fabian Nicieza
Art by Kevin Maguire

Well, I think this is the first time the Narrows has ever been mentioned in Batman comics, I am pretty sure it was only in the movies before....but not totally sure. Anywyas, I look forward to seeing Batgirl take on Arkham's villains next issue.

Batman Confidential #21 Written by Fabian Nicieza Art by Kevin Maguire

For some reason, this issue really got excited for the upcoming Arkham Asylum video game. This was an Arkham story really done well as you feel the creepiness of the place and the villain will get to you at every turn. At the same time, this story retained its light heartedness. What a wonderful surprise this arc was, I hope Fabian's Robin run is just as good as this.

Secret Six Reviews

2008-09-07T01:30:00.002-05:00

Issues:

#1
#2

JSA Classified 27 - 39

2008-09-04T23:42:00.016-05:00

JSA Classified #27
Written by Frank Tieri
Art by Gordon Purcell

Well, that was okay. It was a Wildcat story....nothing to get too excited about. Art was okay too. Altogether just kinda....okay.

JSA Classified #28
Written by Fabian Nicieza
Art by Steve Uy

This was a really neat Jakeem Thunder story....one does have to wonder why he doesn't just help anyone with the genie's seeming limitless powers and this story perfectly explains why. I liked this alot...even though the art was a little too manga for my tastes.

JSA Classified #29
Written by Arvid Nelson
Art by Alex Sanchez

The story wasn't bad here...I always like secret government stuff. But....the art was distractingly bad. I mean look at Wildcat in this book, he looks monsterous and so do all the heroes in this. I don't think Sanchez is suited for the JSA.

JSA Classified #30
Written by Arvid Nelson
Art by Alex Sanchez

Okay...the story is fine. But the art is even worse this issue! Ahhh I can't stand it. Check out the beginning where they are out of costume, you can't tell who is who! Some of the worst art I have ever seen.

JSA Classified #31
Written by Arvid Nelson
Art by Alex Sanchez

Okay why did that little girl look evil at the end of this? Okay the plot is a little rudiculous but the art is even worse. I really hope DC never put this guy on another book.

JSA Classified #32
Written by Junior Thomas
Art by Staz Johnson

Well this was an interesting start to this arc. Apparently the starheart has taken form as Jade, or something looks like Jade. Vandal Savage being the villain and dealing with Alan's loss of Jade I suppose makes this a spiritual sequel to the first arc one year later of this book.

JSA Classified #33
Written by Junior Thomas
Art by Staz Johnson and Mike Norton

As sweet and touching this issue was, there is a huge flaw in it. Alan Scott has a WIFE! He is not alone, he has a son and a wife....why is he not spending Christmas with them. It kinda took me out of what was a pretty nice Alan Scott story.

JSA Classified #34
Written by James Peaty
Art by Freddie Williams II

That was a good Hourman story...I always like it when the series focuses on someone other then Alan Scott, Wildcat, and Mr. Terrific...which is rare. Liberty Belle and Hourman make a great couple. Although I wish she wasn't made a damsel-in-distress in this. She IS a superhero too.

JSA Classified #35
Written by B. Clay Moore
Art by Ramon Perez

Now this is more like it. A story that isn't boring and/or cliche. I liked the whole contrasting modern Wildcat to Wildcat during the Golden Age. And I am really happy to see Catwoman appear in this. I think Alan Scott's comments to Ted were a little out of line though. The art is superb as well although it took getting used to.

JSA Classified #36
Written by B. Clay Moore
Art by Ramon Perez

Seemed like not much happened this issue....but it was still good. We got some Wildcat being a bad ass and a flashback to his first meeting with the Fiddler.

JSA Classified #37
Written by B. Clay Moore
Art by Ramon Perez

This concludes the Wildcat arc, and I must say this one was the best so far in terms of Wildcat arcs. I especially liked the flashback to Green Lantern asking Wildcat to be in the JSA and how all the flashbacks were done to look like they could have been drawn during the Golden Age.

JSA Classified #38
Written by Mike W. Barr
Art by Shawn Martinbrough

This was an enjoyable story. I am not so much a fan of boxing, so I did not expect to enjoy it as much as I did. It deals with someone stealing the abilities of famous boxers and leaving them in an almost vegetative state. Very interesting stuff.

JSA Classified #39
Written by Mike W. Barr
Art by Shawn Martinbrough

In this final issue, Wildcat is brought back by Alan Scott - using some kind of power I did not know he had, I will have to look that up and then goes to beat the crap out of the bad guys. Works for me. I am sad to see this series go, but I still felt like JLA Classified it never really reached its potential and should have focused more on stories of the JSA then individual members.

Nightwing 143 - 148

2008-09-04T18:58:00.012-05:00

Nightwing #143
Written by Peter Tomasi
Art by Don Kramer

The main story may not be that interesting, but Tomasi continues his magnificent run by writing great dialogue between Nightwing and Robin in this issue. Kramer is really good too here....I almost didn't realize it wasn't Rags.

Nightwing #144
Written by Peter Tomasi
Art by Don Kramer and Rags Morales

The mother of champions is such a cool character, I hope they don't kill her at the end of this arc. I think Nightwing should offer Talia some kind of protection against her father, but I agree she should not be allowed to build a metahuman army for herself.

Nightwing #145
Written by Peter Tomasi Art by Rags Morales

Eh...I wish Tomasi hadn't had Ra's escape from Arkham. It just gives writers an excuse to use him more often. Otherwise, this was a good issue. Rag's art is amazing as usual and I like the conflict between Dick and Talia.

Nightwing #146
Written by Peter Tomasi Art by Rags Morales

The last page of this issue - Superman and Nightwing taking off from the Daily Planet Globe - was breathtaking. I like the idea of a Maximum Securty Metahuman Morgue. I am glad this arc is over though - while I liked the whole Mother of Champions thing, I am sick of the al Ghuls. Give them a rest for a while.

Nightwing #147
Written by Peter Tomasi Art by Don Kramer

While this wasn't much of a RIP crossover, it was still a damn good comic. I am liking the story and the dialogue just as well. This is what Tomasi should have started his run with. Two-Face is in it, and he really needed to be in some comic this summer. I liked how Nightwing punches him for absolutely no reason.

Nightwing #148
Written by Peter Tomasi Art by Rags Morales

Seeing so many of Batman's villains in one place was exciting - although I get the feeling this is Nightwing hallucinating due to the nerve gas - but I hope not. The best part of this issue though was the conversation between Dick and Alfred. Strong writing there.

Manhunter 31 - 34

2008-09-04T15:32:00.008-05:00

Manhunter #31
Written by Marc Andreyko
Art by Michael Gaydos

The critically-acclaimed series continues here after a long break. It took a while to get used to the new art, but I think I like it now. Exploring the mystery of Jaurez, Mexico seems like the perfect place to take this series. I don't quite understand why Manhunter is so afraid of Iron Monro, he is not her father, I don't buy that she would be afraid of him just because of what her father did.

Manhunter #32
Written by Marc Andreyko Art by Michael Gaydos

Andreyko always shows his appreciation for the DCU as a whole in this series and once again he shows this. He created a new female Crime Doctor for this series. I like the character, incredibly creepy, but the original killed himself. I had forgotten that Bones was black and I like that Manhunter brought this up to him when he dismissed the deaths of the girls in Jaurez. And I couldn't help but smile when Kate broke the racists' hand.

Manhunter #33
Written by Marc Andreyko
Art by Michael Gaydos

A lot of great moments this issue - Ramsey having superpowers, the surprise arrival of the group formerly known as the Suicide Squad, and the Birds of Prey. I am excited for the next issue. Oh and I have to reccomend any comic that makes a Pee Wee's Big Adventure reference (:

Manhunter #34
Written by Marc Andreyko Art by Michael Gaydos

Oh how I love Andreyko's writing....not only does he bitch slap Republicans in this issue, but he actually has Gay Kissing! Hell ya, it's about time we get some man-on-man action in the DCU. Okay besides my perverted side, this was really good, but this series usually is. I love how much he utilizes the DCU and pays attention to it in his writing.

Detective 833 - 848

2008-09-02T05:28:00.043-05:00

Detective Comics #833
Written by Paul Dini
Art by Don Kramer

The first time I read this issue I was pleasently surprised that Loxias turned out to the Joker. On a second read-through, it was fun to see the clues early on. What a great reveal. Dini may have a Zatanna-fetish, but he does know how to tell great Batman stories with her.

Detective Comics #834 Written by Paul Dini
Art by Don Kramer

Dini is probably the greatest Joker writer of the modern era. This issue supports that. The Joker is hilarious and I love the line about the Justice League Picnic. The ending was awesome where Joker stages his final act. And it was nice to see Batman finally forgive Zatanna for mindwiping him.

Detective Comics #835 Written by John Rozum
Art by Tom Mandrake

This is a particularly creepy Scarecrow filler arc from a writer I have never heard of. The art here is fantastic; dark and moody, fitting the story very well. Scarecrow is one sick fuck.

Detective Comics #836 Written by John Rozum
Art by Tom Mandrake

This concludes the two-part Scarecrow story from last issue. Scarecrow is scaring the heck out of Gotham without his fear gas. Hats off to him I guess haha. He does some scary shit here including almost convincing Robin to go to sleep with a bear trap as a pillow. I question why Rozum brought in this love interest, Kay. She served no point in the story and it's just a filler so it's not like she will be staying around. Odd.

Detective Comics #837 Written by Paul Dini
Art by Don Kramer

This countdown Tie-in worked really well I think. Anytime we have Dini writing Harley Quinn and the Riddler in one issue it is going to be good. Now that I think of it, have we even seen Harley since Countdown ended?

Detective Comics #838 Written by Paul Dini
Art by Ryan Benjamin

This is Part 3 of the Ressurrection of Ra's Al Ghul crossover. Eh it was okay. I have never really gotten into Ra's al Ghul. The only story I really liked with him was Tower of Babel but more for the Justice League then him. So it is really hard for me to care about this story.

Detective Comics #839 Written by Paul Dini
Art by Ryan Benjamin and Don Kramer

This was the conclusion of the Ressurrection of Ra's al Ghul Crossover and I actually liked it a lot better then the previous issue's part. Ra's is not alive inside his son's body and I did like the moment where they all share a Christmas drink at the end (although I wish Cassandra Cain were included in the family moment)

Detective Comics #840 Written by Paul Dini
Art by Don Kramer

Dini is the master of creating new villains. Many modern writers do not create new villains, they use the old ones (which I have no problem with) or they just use a generic monster or gangster. But Dini know how to create a good old fashioned Batman villain and the Globe - a guy obsessed with maps - just fits right in with the rest. But the Globe isn't even the main attraction of this issue, Ra's Al Ghul right after being ressurected is drugged and locked into Arkham by Batman. After all that, Dini put Ra's right out of action....awesome.

Detective Comics #841 Written by Paul Dini
Art by Dustin Nguyen

The things that I love about Dini's work is how he writes the Bat-villains (and how he utilizes them, for the greatest group of villains in comics, a lot of writers choose not to use them) and he does it again with the Mad Hatter here who although tricked into starting a Wonderland Gang by Tweedledee and Tweedledum, gets his revenge in an awesome way. I miss Kramer's work on this title, but Nguyen's artwork isn't half-bad.

Detective Comics #842 Written by Paul Dini
Art by Dustin Nguyen

This was a good filler. This Suit of Sorrows reminded me too much of the black suit from Spider-Man but all in all, it was a nice little story.

Detective Comics #843 Written by Paul Dini
Art by Dustin Nguyen

This is another great issue of Dini's run in which we finally find out the real name of the new Ventriloquist - Peyton Riley. The name sounds familiar but I am not sure where I have heard it before. One does have to wonder how she could make the scarface voice as a female, but I guess that is just suspension of disbelief? Oh and I am not sure how I feel about a Zatanna-Batman romance.

Detective Comics #844 Written by Paul Dini
Art by Dustin Nguyen

So I am still not sure if Peyton Riley has appeared before, but her origin story is pretty cool and I hadn't even noticed that she had been hiding her eye with her hair this whole time. I garuntee you she's not dead, as she just fell into the ocean and that always means they will be back. I wonder how she will get a hold of Scarface again, considering he's in the Batcave now.

Detective Comics #845 Written by Paul Dini
Art by Dustin Nguyen

I really liked this issue - Catwoman and Batman interacting is always fun - and I especially liked the Detective chat room Batman was in with the Riddler and Detective Chimp. Nice touch, Dini!

Detective Comics #846 Written by Paul Dini
Art by Dustin Nguyen

So this is Hush's return - and I must say Dini's take on Hush may be even better then Loeb's. His backstory is explored much better here and Dini seems to be on the road to making him a more developed villain for Batman.....and I like the idea that even a lion could cuddle up with Catwoman lol.

Detective Comics #847 Written by Paul Dini
Art by Dustin Nguyen

Yep, I can tell you now that Dini's Hush story is much better then the original - his back storie are making Hush a more well-rounded and frightening character. The conversation between Catwoman and Zatanna made me smile and I can't help but get excited for the next issue.

Detective Comics #848 Written by Paul Dini
Art by Dustin Nguyen

Oh my gosh, that was an intense issue. I was so scared for Selina there, thank god she is alive. How she is living without a heart I do not know. Hush is one sick mother fucker....and I wonder how this all connects to Peyton Riley, the Ventriloquist. And why did Selina recognize Hush as someone else before he stabbed her? This is really really good and I hope people are reading this....because this way better then Hush's debut arc and actually more enjoyable then RIP.