1st Impressions: HARBINGER # 15 Review

HARBINGER # 15
Written by Joshua Dysart
Art by Barry Kitson, Stefano Gaudiano, Mark Pennington & Ian Hannin with Sotocolor
Valiant Comics


FLIPPING THROUGH:

                The Renegades take some time to relax after recent events as they hit the beach in Los Angeles.  The group enjoy themselves through multiple activities, including Torque and Peter crashing a bodybuilding contest. Kris is nervous around the sea. Later, the group decides to split up to different activities. Torque goes to his first concert. Peter goes with Faith flying around Hollywood Hills. And Kris and Flamingo go out to a party in the middle of the desert they got a flyer for by a guy they found cute. Torque’s response to the guy was that he’s gay, which annoys Kris.
                Yet, you must wonder how do the Renegades accomplish this. Simple. They stop at a car dealership and, using Peter’s telepathy, coax the sales man to give them two cars. So, Torque travels on a large hummer to a metal concert while Kris and Flamingo hit the desert. The two seem to be having a great time … so great that Kris and Flamingo kiss. Flamingo says she was caught up then goes on stage to dance. In the meantime, Kris gets a weird vision.  The two girls go back, finding Torque there. Kris ends up talking to Torque alone …

ART:
                Kitson’s art was different here again from his Bloodshot work and his other work. It was a bit more sketchy in look but with smoother inks than he had during his stint on Bloodshot. And while it may seem unfinished in some panels, it seems to work. Kitson is about to convey emotion, give great porportions. Gaudiano’s and Pennington’s ink really help bring Kitson’s style together throughout the whole book.  There inks are fairly solid and smooth, yet liven up Kitson’s sketch-like style this issue. It works.
                Hannin and Sotocolor do a good job this issue with the colors. The colors are vibrant at the beach but more subdued during the night time panels. They energize the panels while also catching the mood for what Dysart and Kitson are conveying through their work.
                While I wasn’t blown away, still a solid issue.

WRITING:
                Dysart is coming off a major event and how is this for a follow up. Pretty DAMN AWESOME. Dysart’s writing continues to become pinnacle work in comics. Years from now, Dysart’s run on this book will be compared to that of Claremont’s X-Men or John’s Green Lantern or Flash.  Dysart writes very relatable characters and this issue is the best proof of it.
                Dysart brings readers along for a break after all the insanity of the Harbinger Wars. Dysart captures how some real life teens deal with their powers. Dysart does this with Peter abusing his powers to get cars for Torque, Kris and Flamingo. Yet, I was pleasantly surprised at the focus on development with the characters … particularly Kris and Torque. Torque’s usage of gay definitely stems from his upbringing and him dealing with his condition till he was activated.  Kris, on the other hand, seemed to be much more multi-facetted after this issue; especially now that there seems to be hints of bisexuality or lesbian tendencies in both her and Flamingo. It would also explain to her reaction of the word ‘gay.’ Kudos to Dysart for actual dealing with the use of the word ‘gay’, how it is used and, although covertly, expressing feelings on said usage of ‘gay’ in modern day culture. 

                And I can honestly express me saying “HOLY S#!T!” at the ending of the comic. That ALONE is worth the price tag.  Dysart gives us some wonderful sets up with interpersonal relationships …. Along with possibly shipping of Faith & Peter. But that ENDING …. GEEZZ!!!

                For all that is right with the book, I have one gripe … while sometimes … the Renegades are wearing their uniforms to go out to having fun. They didn’t on the beach. And I can understand why Peter & Faith do when they fly (possible insulation & all that) but why did Torque , Flamingo and Kris not wear different clothes when they went out? Is that just a bit too obvious? They know that Harada will still be after them, right?

      Dysart, though, does an incredible job this issue. 

OVERALL IMPRESSION:

                “Perfect Day” part one definitely was a great start for a new arc and good jump on point. The art was good and I applaud Kiston changing things up with his art. It works and fits this crew. As for the writing, Dysart continues to deliver some of the best written comics today and this issue is one of his best to date. My only problem being the costume thing is a minor gripe in the larger scheme of things. Excellent pacing. Great character development. Interesting plot. Gripping characters. Vibrant art. And one hell of an ending makes Harbinger # 15 a GREAT comic.

RATING:
                Besides the one issue I had with it, this book is AMAZING. Harbinger # 15 gets an 8.5 out of 10. BUY IT!!!!

1st Impression: Bloodshot # 13

BLOODSHOT # 13
Written by Duane Swierczynski
Art by Barry Kitson, Clayton Crain, Stefano Gaudiano, Mark Pennington & Brian Reber
Valiant Comics


FLIPPING THROUGH:

                This issue opens with a man in a hospital …without one arm, all bandaged. Then we get a little bit of Bloodshot being lost in his head again thanks to the many false memories and lives that he has … telling him to stay in his head. Bloodshot says no and we get to Bloodshot and Kara having a heart to heart before the battle. Bloodshot reveals that he left a hard reboot in the desert after Kara tells him that Melissa wouldn’t want him to die, defending those children. We are hinted that the man in the hospital with one arm is, indeed, Kara’s brother.

                After that, we continue the narrative … this team handled by Kara as we see them entire the fray in Las Vegas.  We go through the motions of Bloodshot taking on the Renegades rather quickly as Bloodshot has them out class and it is similar to what happened in Harbinger Wars #4. But what we didn’t get in that book is something we are treated to in this one … a rematch between Harada and Bloodshot. And this time … Bloodshot does NOT fair as well as he did the first time around.  The issue ends with Kara finding out exactly what the hard reboot is … while abandoning the psiot children she and Bloodshot were protecting.

ART:

                Kitson and Crain deliver great, gritty art that fit the tone of the story so well. The grittier pencils were matched by Gaudiano’s, Kitson’s & Pennington’s  harder inks which definitely fit the book during this whole arc and they both excel at it this issue. There are some truly horrific panels throughout the issue that really stuck to me done by both pencilers.  The inkers this issue do an excellent job in some light shading and really bringing out the gritty-ness of the book.

                Reber does an excellent job with the colors … from giving Crain’s style more of a painted look to Kitson’s style being more classic comic. Still, the two style don’t clash to the point where it effects the flow of the story at all.  There are some truly awesome shadow and shade work thanks to the inkers and Reber.

                And panel work was really strong this issue. Overall, really good art.

WRITING:

                For those of you who do not know, this is Duane Swierczynski’s FINAL issue of Bloodshot.  After this issue, we get a guest writer than new writing team of Joshua Dysart & Christos Gage.  So, how does Swierczynski wrapped up his run?

                Swierczynski ties up nearly every end he had from the first issue of the book last year.  The kids … the false memories … and Bloodshot’s struggle. We have seen so much happen to the main character this last year. And now, we see Bloodshot going all in with the kids in Las Vegas, to reunite them with Generation Zero.  From Kara’s perspective … Bloodshot has grown a lot. Doing the right thing for these children.

                There is a lot of heart and emotion this final issue as well as Kara and Bloodshot have their “final” heart to heart talk which really shows how far Bloodshot has come and also how far Kara has developed. Yet, she was done and Bloodshot knew it and (SPOILERS) gave her a way out.

                The hard reboot being for Kara was a brilliant move for Swierczynski and that final panel with Bloodshot was chillin. Swierczynski definitely set up this issue to be his last issue … tying up loose ends and seemingly (SPOILERS): this Bloodshot. The scary thing is that I suspect that the Bloodshot we knew won’t be back in issue #0 or in Bloodshot & the HARD Corps # 14. Swierczynski blends powerful emotion, great story and leaves us guessing at the end of his run.


OVERALL IMPRESSION:

                This is one of those issues that you have to read … digest a little than look back at it cause there is a lot that gets covered in this issue. Yet, it was paced well and Swierczynski goes out with a bang … giving a sense of finality as this is the exit of multiple characters while also leaving enough mysteries for the new writing team to pick up. Also, Kitson’s experimentation with his art to be grittier worked extremely well and kudos to the art team for giving us a great issue.

RATING:
                Swierczynski’s Bloodshot ends with a BANG … and an awe-inspiring one. I give Bloodshot # 13 a 9 … out of 10.

1st Impression: Harbinger #14 Review

HARBINGER # 14
Written by Joshua Dysart
Art by Khari Evans, Trevor Hairsine, Stefano Gaudiano & Ian Hannin
Valiant Comics

FLIPPING THROUGH:

                Harbinger # 14 chronicles what happened at the end of Harbinger Wars to our favorite group of Renegades as well as details the finale of Harada’s first war with Project: Rising Spirit. Back in 1969, we find just how deep Rising Spirit went in order to gain powers of Psiots. And how that conflict changed Harada profoundly enough to make sure that psiot business was kept under wraps.

                Meanwhile, in the present, we see the battle with Bloodshot and the military through the eyes and narrative of Faith. Faith chronicles the fall of the Renegades as well as parts of the finale of Harbinger Wars … yet also shows exactly what happened to Faith  … which was not seen in Harbinger Wars # 4.

ART:

                Hairsine and Evans make these pages pop out in this finale to the Harbinger Wars tie-ins. We get some very strong panel work from both artists, making sure that each panel is dynamic in its own way. Hairsine’s rough pencils work in the past while the smoother touch of the present is seen with Evan’s fine pencils. Great use of back grounds and imagery as every scene kept showing more and more eye popping moments. And Gaudiano’s inks makes sure both art fit well for the book. Nothing felt out of place and the two styles did not affect the book’s flow at all.

                Hannin’s colors really charge up all the art work, giving us deeper shadows in the past to talk about that very dark period while Las Vegas was brighter and a bit more optimistic, which fit the mood and tone of the story at that point.

WRITING:

                Dysart writes a perfect climax to the Harbinger War tie-in stories that have been happening in Harbinger. The use of Faith this issue with the present day story was profound as she used actual existing properties to convey how out of their element the group was during the final battle. The insanity this issue seem a bit easier to take because of Dysart’s masterful narrative of Faith.  The emotions of the cast were masterfully conveyed and Dysart made sure that while the narrative was Faith, we still saw all the emotions on the rest of the Renegades.

                The 1969 story with the origins of the Harada/Rising Spirit conflict came to a very shocking, intense and plot twisting conclusion that intergrates itself well to the events of Harbinger Wars. We know why Harada is the way he is. We know the origins of Rising Spirit. Developing Harada further has made him into a Magneto level/like kind of villain now. He wants to do good for his people but he will commit autrocities to do so … yet, Dysart twists that by showing what would happen if Harada was completely like Magneto … the open conflict taking lives of people he loved. It deepened the story and over all progressed well.

                Really exquisite writing from Dysart.

OVER ALL IMPRESSION:

                This issue had a little bit of everything in a nice bow.  And it did not insult the readers by showing us everything that occurring in Harbinger Wars # 4 the same way. The 1969 story came to a dramatic, thought-proving  and very agreeable conclusion while the present day narrative gave us the final fate of Faith and just the overall love of the character by Dysart and her importance to the Renegades as a group.

                The art was amazing. The pacing was perfect.


RATING:

                I believe this is the first time I give Harbinger this high of a score but I will give Harbinger #14 a 10 … out of 10


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1st Impressions: Bloodshot # 12

BLOODSHOT # 12
Written by Duane Swierczynski
Art by Barry Kitson, Stefano Guadiano & Brian Reber
Valiant Comics

FLIPPING THROUGH:

                The journey to Las Vegas Continues as Bloodshot leads his group towards Vegas as they need to make a pit stop for some food. The pit stop becomes an adventure as Kuretich shows up with a team from Harada to take down Bloodshot at a meat factory. In a gory confrontation, Bloodshot takes on this team while taking heavy damage. In the meantime, Kara & the kids get trapped in their own vehicle … leading to more trouble.

ART:
 

                Kitson gives over to a grittier, darker style more and is really showcased his versatility as an artist. Kitson pushes the envelope with his style with the rougher edges and Guadiano inks creates this wonderful, rough edges. There is a lot of expression and detail in the work. The two weave wonderful panel work.

                Reber’s darker colors and shades builds upon the Kitson’s pencils and Gaudiano/Kitson’s inks. The action is kinetic. The panel work is doing well. The violence was amped up. Yet, it does work with the story and the battles that take place in this book.

                Kitson is a master of sequential art and this art team nails it this issue.

WRITING:

                Swierczynski  gives us a great interlude to the Harbinger Wars and reflects why Bloodshot looks the way he looks during the third issue of Harbinger Wars.  He really starts to let the children shine as they work through their issues. They’re own battle, while did not outshine the star, was just as interesting and good. And we seem to become familiar with the kids that Bloodshot saved.

                 Bloodshot continues to build upon himself, actually stating that he misses the boy that represented the nanites … which makes his internal struggle more interesting and finding how much he relied on that boy before.  Swierczynski really gives more depth to our main character while also enhancing the supporting cast. Also, it is a great end note to Bloodshot’s relationship with Kuretich. Overall, a great written issue.

OVERALL IMPRESSION:

                Harbinger Wars continues to be an interesting event while Bloodshot develops more and more. The stakes keep raising but this is an excellent breather.  We get good character development, great resolution to Kuretich & Bloodshot’s relationship. Kitson took chances with his art this issue and it really paid off.


RATING:

                A strong issue with great development, I give Bloodshot # 12 a 9 out of 10.

                

Bloodshot # 11 Review

 BLOODSHOT # 11

Written by Duane Swiercyznski
Art by Barry Kitson, Stefano Gaudiano & Brian Reber
Valiant Comics


FLIPPING THROUGH:

            We get an extended battle between Bloodshot and Harada (that took place in Harbinger Wars # 2) with more details of what the Harada Protocals were doing inside of Bloodshot. And it’s gruesome. Plus, learn as to how prepared Bloodshot REALLY is.


ART:

            Barry  Kitson is showing that he still has plenty of tricks up his sleeves. The veteran’s style is so different in this book. Sharper. Darker. And it fits the tone of Bloodshot. This issue is very balls to the wall with graphic imagery from all the damage Bloodshot takes. Kitson and Gaudiano sharply displays the damage Bloodshot takes, his literal inner struggle and what happens. Kitson really presents us with charming children alongside destroyed faced heroes with class. Bloodshot is horrifying yet human as Kitson brings that out during his battle with Harada.

            The sharper inks that Gaudiano and Kitson used on Kitson’s pencils really worked with the tone of the issue. This was a down and dirty battle that was rendered extremely well. Reber’s colors only enhanced the insanity that this issue presented. Kudos to the team for a great issue.


WRITING:

            This issue has some of what we saw in Harbinger Wars # 2 and more. Swierczynski definitely presents us a war machine who is finding his humanity and it is not more evident than it was in this issue as he battled Harada. Bloodshot’s inner struggle with the Harada Protocal definitely opened a lot with the character as it went from showing him as the killing machine that is his reputation to him taking back his humanity during the course of the battle; which only cements Bloodshot as more than just a Punisher Clone.  The added inner struggle made the battle against Harada that much better. The pacing of the issue was great. And Kara is become a favorite of mine. I hope there is much more with her.

            Revelations, a man turned into a machine fighting back to be a man … this issue really displayed how far Bloodshot has come since the first issue nearly a year ago. Great dialogue and well written story in the background of an epic battle really made this issue a treat.  Yet, I felt that because of the few and far in between moments between the other characters … they were left for the dust.


OVERALL RATING:

            Smart writing with good art makes this book enjoyable. You don’t have to read Harbinger Wars # 2 to enjoy this issue and while Bloodshot shines over all, it is a great character piece admist a REALLY all out battle.

RATING:

            I enjoyed the issue.  While the supporting cast got very little looked at this issue, Bloodshot, as a character, really evolved more. I give Bloodshot # 11 an 8 out of 10. 

Harbinger # 12 Review

HARBINGER # 12
Written by Joshua Dysart
Art by Khari Evans, Trevor Hairsine, Clayton Crain, Stefano Guadiano & Ian Hannin
Valiant Comics


FLIPPING THROUGH:

            As Peter and the rest of the Renegades (and yes, Faith and the gang agree on that name this issue) enter Las Vegas … they find Cronos and his psiot have taken over the casino that we saw taken over from Harbinger Wars # 2. We get introductions … including Peter being called Sting for the first time in ages … as each of the Renegades see different psiots and how this group works compared to the rest of them.

            After an eerie mention of how Cronos came to be, there is a long chat that looks at the ideology of Cronos since his experimentation, life with than escape from Project: Rising Spirit.

            Meanwhile, we have flashbacks to Toyo Harada during 1969 as we see how Project: Rising Spirit and Harada Foundation became enemies.


ART:

            This book delivers some intense visuals. From the arrival of the Renegades to the casino to Cronos’s origins to the flashback at the end of the book … there were a lot of things that were gripping about the issue. And while most of the issue, there was not big fight, there definitely seems to be a clashing of two groups. The Renegades learn what Project; Rising Spirit did to them. And one of the best things the book did right was split up the sections of the book to different artists. Evans handled the present day as we get some really good panel compositions of angles where the scenes take place.  There is emotion in these pages that easily fill. The inks are nice … not too heavy, not too light. And Evans one panel with Cronus stained with a bloody hand print was chilling but is balanced out between an emotional scene between Peter and Torque.

            Hairsine does the origins of Harada’s ongoing war with Project: Rising Spirit, going back to 1969. Readers will find HOW Harada was bringing about Psiots back that and how the two companies really forged their rivalry. The final pages are chilling as Harada takes care of betrayers with darker tones alongside the nice inks and panel work.

            Clayton Crain has an unmentioned credit as he vividly and nightmarishly displays Cronos’ origin for all to see. The horrors that the young man had faced only  to be dragged by to Project: Rising Spirit showed a mix of horror and darkness of the character with strong expressions and body language that Crain makes apparent for all to see.

            Hannin handles coloring everything like a champion. All the color work helps link the 3 distinctly different styles together. Emotional scenes are handled with lighter colors while the darker, more gruesome aspects like Cronus’s blood stained outfit while talking to Peter or Harada … cleaning house … were given into the shadows and darker colors.

            All in all, the art really gave itself an explosive showing.

WRITING:

            Dysart continues to bring us The Renegades in a light that shows us that they still have a chance to be something different … stronger. And after the interactions with many members of Cronos’s group … we will find characters deeply changed.  Torque declaration of not knowing what’s real anymore really helped shed light that he is not just some crazy kid who thinks everything is not real. He knows his brother’s dead. He knows what is really going on but is coping through life with his fantasy. Kris is starting to really feel out of her depth here. Flamingo and Faith are seemingly looking at the others … figuring out where they belong. And Peter … he is obviously trying to live up to what he promised the Bleeding Monk.

            The bits from 1969 getting into the origins of the Harada/Project: Rising Spirit conflict might seem like filler but actually enhance the book. Dysart makes sure you don’t have to read Harbinger Wars while making this book still solid and entertaining. We learn more about young Harada and his dealings with Project: Rising Spirit. Which only get more gruesome as things move along.

            And Cronos’s origin really pulled at the heart strings while showing hard far down the young man has fallen. He is willing to kill to give the others a chance at happiness. It is really insane yet understandable. Dysart made a homicidal maniac entertaining, likable and even makes you feel some kind of empathy towards him. That is an amazing accomplishment. And the pacing for everything was excellent. I give props to Dysart for such a great job.


OVERALL IMPRESSION:

            Harbinger  #12 gives you more keys to what is happening during Harbinger Wars and why while really showing what the Renegades are finding about themselves. This is not going to be an easy trip for them. The art is amazing. The writing is Top-notch. A really strong showing. I look forward to more.


RATING:

            I give Harbinger # 12  an 8.5 out of 10. Really great book. Buy it now!

Bloodshot # 10 Review

BLOODSHOT # 10
Written by Duane Swierczynski
Art by Barry Kitson, Stefano Gaudiano & Brian Reber
Valiant Comics


FLIPPING THROUGH:

            Bloodshot leads his group of children across the desert, with seemingly no where to go. The kids start questioning where they are going as they are suddenly attacked by soldiers in 2 choppers. We see Bloodshot & the kids in action. Yet, against the wishes of one of the children, Bloodshot does kill most of the soldiers, with some help.

Some of the children seemingly want to use Bloodshot while Kara have a harsh discussion about where Bloodshot is taking them and how Bloodshot is doing this after the death of Pulse. Bloodshot leads them to an abandoned town with supplies he planted there in the past when there is another uninvited guests.


ART:

            I have followed Kitson’s arts for the last 2 decades. The man’s art is very distinct and polished. Here … Kitson’s art goes a slightly different  He definitely goes for a gritty look to his art. Deeper inks and shadows along with deep pencils. Kitson goes out of his comfort zone with this darker, grittier style and it really, REALLY works. It’s violent yet expressive. Gaudino & Kitson’s inks amplify the grittiness.

            Brian Reber’s colors really bring out the best of Kitson’s work here, giving the book the look and feel it needs on each and every scene. The action scene’s are cinematic and vivid. The quiet scenes are intimate and full of expression. Kitson really gets into the grit and grime of the book and performs to near perfection. A spectacular job by the art team on the issue.


WRITING:

            Swierczynski writes a great issue. While there is still have a good amount of action, character development rules the issue. The pacing of the issue works well with the battle in the middle of the issue. Swierczynski gives us a very compelling, multi-faceted Bloodshot who is being a leader while still being lost himself. Kara proves to be strong support and the sub plot with the kids and Project: Rising Spirit was great.
           

            The kids are varied and give great and various perspectives to the current situation they are in with Bloodshot. The fact that some what to use Bloodshot is ominous on top of the arrival of … oh no. Not telling.

            The writing was really well done as we get to question why Bloodshot is doing what he’s doing while he questions his own past. Really great work from Swierczynski this issue.


OVERALL IMPRESSION:

            Bloodshot # 10 eases into the Harbinger Wars well as we see Bloodshot take the mantle of father and leader to the group of children he rescued. There were moral conflicts, physical conflicts and emotional conflicts that were relevant and helped making the issue hold a lot of power. This is a very different road Bloodshot is on now. And with great art and superb story, we’re along for the ride.


RATING:

   I give Bloodshot # 10 a 9 out of 10. One of the best issues yet and some new tricks from a comic book vet like Barry Kitson is MUCH welcomed. GET IT NOW!



           

Harbinger # 11 Review

HARBINGER # 11
Written by Joshua Dysart
Art by Khari Evans, Trevor Hairsine , Stefano Gaudiano & Ian Hannin
Valiant Comics


FLIPPING THROUGH:

     This issue serves as a prelude and ties into Harbinger Wars. We get to see Harada's first deals with Project: Rising Spirit ... finding out that Rising Spirit has existed for over 2 hundred years. And oddly enough, we pick up where Harbinger Wars #1 left off with Peter talking to the monk ... only to have Harada come in.

    Also, this issue sets Pete's Harbingers down the path they feel they need to take as some abuse their powers and there are consequences for that.


ART:

     Khari Evans and Trevor Hairsine pencils are somewhat similar enough that the two styles complement each other and allow for a very easy flow through the issue. Neither style over powered the other and there are some gripping panel work throughout the issue. Gaudiano's inks maybe keep to that as he makes sure Evan's & Hairsine's pencils are sharp, distinctive and really pop at you this issue. We get wonderful backgrounds, very distinctive moments and poses and really great transitions done by Evans, Hairsine & Gaudiano.

    Hanin's colors really bring out the best of all these creators' art this issue. The backgrounds, whether real or mental were very vivid and rich. The shading and color on our characters really captured their personalities and mood of the scene. A great job by the art team.


WRITING:



     Dysart really does an outstanding job this issue as he uses it as an aftermath to the Renegades storyline, a one off issue that serves as a prelude to what is to come and really start focusing on the characters within Peter's Renegades as a group. Dysart shows why they are together and the roles each character plays in this group.

     While Kris seems to be second in command, Peter is slowly but sure taking on his role as leader as Dysart writes him as a man who will take charge, even if he doesn't necessarily want to. Torque is learning about real life but proceeds to act if it was still his dream as it is all he ever knows only to come up with a very soul shatter revelation on how he COULD have dealt with life before during an encounter at the bar. Flamingo is very much a woman who wants to help her friends but also want to let out steam. And Faith definitely throws her weight in as the group's soul & conscious.

   Dysart gives every character a moment to shine this issue and proves great set up for what the Renegades are about to embark on. The pacing for the issue was exquisite. Kudos to Dysart for all his work.



OVERALL IMPRESSION:

    Harbinger # 11 proves so much in just the 1 issue. A great jump on point. Excellent & very unexpected character development. A rich look and feel while adding to the tapestry of the books on history and characters. And really show why each character NEEDS each other and their role. Morals, right from wrong, destiny and more were all fine points this issue. The art really shined as we saw everyone going through different ranges of emotions throughout the book. Harbinger continues it's steady climb as one of the best comics in the market today.


RATING:

     And with all that, I give Harbinger # 11 a 9 ... out of 10. Great book. Get it NOW!
 

HARBINGER # 10 Review

HARBINGER # 10

Written by Joshua Dysart

Art by Matthew Clark, Alvaro Martinez, Dimi Macheras, Brian Thies & Stefano Gaudiano

Valiant Comics

FLIPPING THROUGH:

            The book opens the way last issue ends with Faith getting Pete free. Pete though comes up with a plan to save the others just as Project: Rising Spirit arrives to collect them. Pete’s plan goes into action as he is able to take control of at least 2 people on his plan transporting him while Faith is charged to rescue the others.

            As for the rest of what happens … I am not telling you. :P

ART:

            I am gonna cut to the chase. Dear God, there are so many  artist this issue and you can barely tell there is a difference between all of them. Seriously, most of the artist seem to match Matthew Clark’s style enough that it seemed like he did the entire issue with only slight variations. Each of the pencils pour plenty to all of the panels and pages. Great visuals were rendered this issue from Faith flying, to Pete’s own battle on his plane to Flamingo’s landing.

            There was so many interesting things to look at. Gaudiano does an outstanding job inking the works and help bring about artistic cohesion. The nice sharp lines really bring out the best of all of the pencilers while also shaving the pictures to help them look the same. Really tremendous job by the art team.

WRITING:

 

            Joshua Dysart wrote a thrilling, engaging and action packed ending to the Renegades story arc. While most of the issue is Pete, we do get to see the others shine throughout the issue. I literally laughed outloud when Pete told Mr. Tull that he is his son … and lying about that. There was so many things happening in the issue but Dysart really paced all the stories so well.

            We learned how far Pete has come since the first issue and seeing what the others would think and feel about either staying together or going there separate ways. I am extremely surprised that Pete did NOT want the group to stay together after this. And Dysart handles those feelings and reactions extremely well with the narrative.  Dysart writes a nearly seamless story that ends the Renegades arc while setting up for Harbinger War and I loved every second of it.

OVER ALL IMPRESSION:

            Strong writing. Great art. Intriguing characters that do grow and develop and we are there watching. The Renegades have come together and it has been a wild, enjoyable ride. I look forward to what is to come from them and what else will come of it. At the same time, the strong art really help show Pete’s development and gave us a great action scene. Great job from the entire creative team.

RATING:

            Harbinger # 10 was exquisite and I give it a 9 out of 10. It was near perfect. 

Shadowman # 5 REVIEW

SHADOWMAN # 5
Written by Justin Jordon & Patrick Zircher
Art by Patrick Zircher, Lee Garbett, Roberto Delatorre & Stefano Gaudiano
Valiant Comics


FLIPPING THROUGH:

            We open with one of the Brethen falling to a man who worships the Voodoo God known as the Baron .. . violently. Cut to Jack at the Diner where he was in the first issue, trying to have some normal after all the insanity. Only to bring insanity to him after a very angry Alyssa. Jack learns first hand that his old life is over for good in a violent way.

            Meanwhile, in a police station, a criminal is being interrogated by … OMG ….Shan Fong … She’s … the new DR MIRAGE!!! Yes. Yes! YES!!!! . . .. Um … yeah. After we see the new  Dr. Mirage in actions with a ghost … that scene leads us to the …

            Deadside where Darque is traveling alongside our monkey friend from last issue, Jaunty. Jaunty brings Darque to a large manor in the Deadside where he meets with a somewhat surprising figure inside.


ART:

            You know? There are multiple artists this issue. Different styles. And while the styles are different, it did not really interrupt the flow of the story. There are darker inks used this issue but still lead to some stunning work from Zircher, Garbett, Delatorre & Gaudiano. The darker inks this issue actually helped make Zircher & Garbett’s work stand out more. It also blended with the tone of the story, Making it more and more interesting.

            There are some magnificent pieces of panel work done by Zircher early on. And Garbett’s pages were really strong here as well. And while the different art styles in the same issue are breaks up the flow of some comics, the art team masterfully uses it here. The most the art work felt a little off was transitioning from Dr. Mirage (Y AY!) to Darque but  that is pretty much the equivalent to a car over a small pot hole.


WRITING:

            Justin Jordon and Patrick Zircher deliver a strong, well paced opening to their second arc. We get mysteries as two new characters, the Baron worshipper and the new Dr. Mirage, quickly get woven into the tapestry of Jack Boniface’s conflict without meeting him.
 

            The violent opening really help super charged the book as it slowed down just enough to keep a great pace.  We get some good character development for Jack, Dox, Darque and the new characters while the issue ends up being a lot of set up. Yet, it is great set up as we get to see Jack learning to live with his decision and to the legacy he carries.  

            The new Dr. Mirage is already very interesting.  I like the fact that she’s a woman and a paranormal investigator that used to be on tv. A very interesting difference from her predecessor. The Brethen are proving more and more interesting as time flies. And we got a very satisfying ending with  Darque meeting a … oh no. I’m not telling. 

            Good pacing. Great Character development and a wonderful job introducing two new players in this conflict while advancing the main character and one of his supporting characters as well. Great job Jordon and Zircher.


OVERALL IMPRESSION:

            This book really never disappoints me. Sure, the art is a bit different this issue but definitely works in the confines of the story. The art was solid. The characters were very entertaining, compelling. The plotlines were all interesting and interconnecting. And we get a look to the past while heading towards the future.

            Besides the minor hiccup, Shadowman continues to be one of the strongest comics out there. Well written, great characters, interesting plots and gripping story make Shadowman a triumph for any and all readers.


RATING:

   I give Shadowman # 5 a 9 out of 10. Sure. Not perfect but still damn good and you should own it now!!!!

First Impressions: Bloodshot # 7

BLOODSHOT # 7
Written by Duane Swierczynski
Art by Matthew Clark, Stefano Gaudiano , Moose Baumann & Chris Sotomayor
Valiant Comics


FLIPPING THROUGH:

            While  this does not continue the story from last issue but it does give background as to why the little boy at the end of last issue recognize. We find out where and when they met before while also seeing why, at least back then, Bloodshot did what he did an his connection to the good Dr. Kuretich.
           
            This also leaves you wondering about Bloodshot’s former assignments and connections to not just the one boy but many of the kids.

ART:

            Matthew Clark steps in this issue and does a great job. His gritty style mixed with Stefano’s inks really jump out on the page. It fits the done well and the visuals were gripping. Bloodshot looked meancing yet human which is perfect dealing with this story. Gaudiano’s inks were a big rougher to match the style and we’re superb.  Moose Baumann & Sotomayor do spectacular jobs in coloring: slightly changing the colors to help bring out Clark’s work more while stay true to the  themes and plots  of the story. A great work by this team.


WRITING:

            Swierczynski continues to build up this wonderful stew called Bloodshot, full of mystery and intrigue. Intitally, I thought this was bad to have an interlude in the middle of a story arc. Yet, the story works out to be a vital piece of information for the readers to discover what exactly Bloodshot has been doing and how, while he’s part of the problem – he is not at fault.

            What is even scarier is the power the young boy possess and the implications of Bloodshot’s missions and Project: Rising Spirit. Layered with great dialogue about motivations and why people do what they do, this issue is a storytelling gold mind.  The emotions feel authentic. The situations feel real .. . only slightly enhanced by super powers. This is truly a great piece of written work and I really enjoyed this issue.


OVER ALL IMPRESSION:

            Intelligent writing mixed with intrigue, emotion and curiosity to add with the gritty, in-your-face visuals make Bloodshot # 7 REALLY stand out. The pacing in this issue was excellent. And I do feel that Swierczynski has a great more to tell. The art team really fit the book. Bloodshot is proving to be a masterful work by Swierczynski and company.


I give Bloodshot  # 7  .. a 9 out of 10.  A great issue all around.

First Impression: X-O Manowar # 8

X-O MANOWAR # 8
Written by Robert Venditti
Art by Lee Garbett, Stefano Gaudiano & Moose Baumann
Valiant Comics


FLIPPING THROUGH:

     The Vine has human spawn among us. And they have infiltrated many countries and worlds. And Aric and Ninjak decide to take a bunch of them out ...in MI-6. Yes. X-O Manowar and Ninjak join forces this issue to tackle the Vine spies and tear up MI-6 headquarters in the process. Alex Dorian, a human sympathizer, ends up deciding to work with our heroes as the Vine's hold on Britain gets torn apart .. . only to signal worse things to come.


ART:

     Garbett style has a somewhat similar style to Cary Nord which suits the book in terms of style and flow. This issue, Garbett & Gaudiano lay it on the line in this issue alongside Ninjak and X-O Manowar. We got strong pencils with some great inks this issue. The backdrop of England was perfect. All the characters were distinct in look and feel.
      The action had a good pace. And I like the coloring from Baumann this issue. It was darker and grittier than previous issues of X-O Manowar I read but it really worked for the book.


WRITING:

    All plots leading towards a few things: 1 - that Ninjak is back as a major player. (& me & Bryan of Laid Back Comics are hoping this leads to his own spin off book, 2 - that the Vine/Human offspring are not all aligned with the Vine and Alex Dorian may not be alone, 3 - Aric definitely is willing to take out the Vine alongside an alley ... even if he truly does not trust them, 4 - The set up for Planet Death storyline in a couple of issues.

    Venditti handles the multiple plots well. There was great action. Strong characterizations. A looking into how the Vine is organized on Earth. overly, a strong flow to the issue as well. What is holding it back is that ... well. Ninjak. The way the issue was structure, there are reasons why everything happened the way it did. But Ninjak is a double edged sword this issue: cause the focus on him was pretty much on par with Aric. And while that is good in many cases ... this book is still X-O Manowar. So ... it is both a good and bad thing. Cause while it was great to see Ninjak, I believe this issue was balanced between Aric and Ninjak.

 I feel  that was was slightly too much Ninjak this issue. And you don't want your guest star overshining your main character that much. Maybe just a page. I love Ninjak but when your guest-star gets so much more interesting, you'd rather just see more scenes with him than with the main character ... yeah. That is saying something. Still, very well written issue by Venditti.


OVERALL IMPRESSION:

   It was a strong ending to this multi-part storyline alongside Ninjak. The art was good. The pacing was great. The story was interesting and really good. Unfortunately, the guest-star shined a bit too much over the main star. And while I am looking forward to what comes next, I am far more interested in Ninjak. Venditti is a great writer with a mastery of pacing and character work. X-O Manowar is a good book. Aric is a good, interesting hero. The storylines are intriguing and you want to know more Yet, I want to see what happens next for Ninjak ... now preferably.  

I give X-O Manowar # 8 a 3.5 out of 5.

PREVIEW: X-O Manowar # 4

Valiant Preview: X-O MANOWAR #4

 

Valiant is proud to present an advance preview of X-O Manowar #4, from the chart-topping creative team of New York Times best-selling author Robert Venditti and Eisner Award-winning artist Cary Nord!

 

After years in captivity, Aric of Dacia has returned to Earth to enact his vengeance on the Roman Empire! But when the ancient warrior in control of the X-O Manowar armor discovers that more than 1,500 years has passed since his journey began, will he turn his fury on the alien empire that enslaved him or the whole of modern day civilization? Meanwhile, the secret history of The Vine’s presence on Earth is about to be revealed. Who is The Vine's highly placed ambassador to the human race? And will he be Aric’s one ally in this strange new world – or his very first enemy?

 

Aric's centuries-spanning war for freedom is about to hit the home front in an explosive finale that will send shockwaves through the Valiant Universe. Learn the true price of victory when when the summer’s hottest series reaches its first major milestone on August 29th, only in X-O Manowar #4!

 

X-O MANOWAR #4—ON SALE AUGUST 29TH!

Written by ROBERT VENDITTI

Art by CARY NORD 

Cover by DOUG BRAITHWAITE (JUN121330)

Variant Cover by DON KRAMER (JUN121331)

$3.99/ T+/ 32 pgs.


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First Impressions: X-O Manowar # 3

Aric gets his armor on in X-O Manowar #3

XO Manowar 
Issue # 3
The Road to Rome
Written by Robert Vendetti
Art by Cary Nord, Stefano Gaudiano & Moose Baumann
Valiant Comics


Review by Frankie Rodriguez


Flipping Through: 

     At this point, Aric, Gaft and the other members of their clan have been enslaved for what seems to be years. Aric now has the X-O Manowar armor on and he leads his group of humans against their alien oppressors. During the course of the issue, we find out why Aric is the only one to escape alone and how he makes his way into the present with the Manowar armor.

     We say goodbye to Gaft and we find that while some of the Vine think the Manowar armor blessed, others feel that is a curse. And Aric is more than happy to prove it a curse than a blessing.


Writing:

  Lot of good solid writing by Vendetti as we see Aric's escape, learn a bit more about the Vine and work in how he gets to the present all at the same time.  There some interesting character moments between Gaft and Aric, setting up Aric up as this great warrior. While the story over all was enjoyable, the pacing seemed a bit weird. Aric gets his hand back which helped give credence of how powerful the armor is does well. Also, Aric taking out Commander Trill, who enslaved him in the first place also felt a bit rushed.


Art:

   Nord's pencils and Gaudiano's inks really compliment each other extremely well. The Vine look ... alien; the armor looks high tech and amazing. The humans look out of place on the ship. The backgrounds are really vibrant and suck you in. There is a grandness of what is going on and Baumann's colors just add to the spectacle. From an alien ship, to outer space, to the Colosseum in Rome ... everything was well rendered and visually appealing. A great job done by the Nord, Gaudiano & Baumann.


Overall Impression:

    X-O Manowar was the first book in Valiant's relaunch and it is still a solid book. A very interesting, multifaceted main character and a journey that has just begun, I am looking forward to Aric's adventures this time. The art is great and really works for the characters and story. The only  real negative of the issue is the breakneck pace. It is understandable why it is paced the way it was this issue but it did hurt the story over all. If there was a little more time with the great healing abilities of X-O Manowar armor and a battle between Aric and his chief jailer, it would have been perfect. Still , a great job from the X-O Manowar creative team.

  So I give X-O Manowar a 4 out of 5. Still looking forward to Aric's adventures and what will come.

X-O Manowar # 3 Preview

Valiant Entertainment is proud to present an advance preview of X-O Manowar #3 – the next issue of the critically acclaimed series by New York Times bestselling writer Robert Venditti and Eisner-Award winning artist Cary Nord! It's a pivotal turning point for the smash hit series of the summer when Aric of Dacia heads the call to arms and embraces his destiny as the unstoppable X-O Manowar this July 18th!

With the enormous power of the Manowar armor now in his possession, all that stands between Aric and freedom is a legion of alien soldiers. When he at last comes face to face with Commander Trill — the alien responsible for his capture — the armor reveals its potential in a new and electrifying way. Can Aric lead his band of fellow prisoners off the Vine colony ship and back to Earth, or will their revolt be put down? Who will live and who will die?

On July 18, the stars will run red when X-O Manowar is finally unleashed on the Valiant Universe! The epic conclusion to the action-packed origin story of the year starts here, only in X-O Manowar #3!

Find out now why this is the book Comics Bulletin calls "blisteringly entertaining" and a "really fun, sharp, swift comic." And discover where the saga of Aric of Dacia began in the X-O Manowar #1 Third Printing Sketch Cover – in stores the same day!

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First Impressions: Bloodshot #1

Bloodshot #1 official cover

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Bloodshot #1 

Written by Duane Swierczynski
Art by Manuel Garcia, Arturo Lozzi & Stefano Gaudiano
Valiant Entertainment

Review by Frankie Rodriguez 


 INTRODUCTION:

      Valiant Comics started out back in the 90s and was it glorious. Using a mix of original characters like XO Manowar, Ninjak & Shadowman with Gold Key heroes like Magnus the Robot Fighter, Solar & Turok, Valiant had built itself up as the comic book company to beat for the number 3 spot; dueling with Image Comics at the time. Valiant folded and came back then folded again only to return in the present. And while no Gold Key characters are along for this ride, the relaunch of Valiant has shown us some of the great heroes of Valiant's past back ... such as XO Manowar and characters from Harbinger.

    Bloodshot, at first, seemed to be a clone of Wolverine and the Punisher. But once you read the adventures, you found a decidedly different character. Yet, This Bloodshot today is a brand new incarnation. New character so people can jump on easily enough. And why not? Writing this new incarnation is acclaimed crime novelist and comic book scribe, Duane Swierczynski (currently also writing Godzilla, Birds of Prey & of course, Bloodshot).

    So, how does this book measure up?


FLIPPING THROUGH:
   So, let's see. I open the book. Ah. Information in the interior cover. Hmm ... some of this stuff is interesting. Let's see how the story reads. Okay. A drone flies in and ... wait. How do the guys controlling the drone just die? This is only 2 pages in. Wait. Okay. Here's our guy who ... get's hit by a ... WHAT THE HELL?! How is he still alive after ...? Wait. Wait. He can do that?! This is so awesome. Whoa! They are WHAT? !

    Um ... guy goes on mission and almost NOTHING is as it seems. NOTHING!

Readers, Meet Ray

WRITING:

     That last paragraph sums up what I was thinking while reading the book. And I can honestly say that Bloodshot #1 is GLORIOUS. You don't have a last name for this character in this book and there is a good reason for that. Swierczynski crafts at tale that you just have to read to believe. He immediately gets readers gripped into one mystery while we seem to get answers. Answers that readers will only end up asking more questions because of them. The only thing that seems to be consistent is our main character and even that is questionable.

    Readers meet Ray and learn of his unquestionable loyalty to friends and family. And that takes Ray deeper into more mysteries than we ever though possible. Swierczynski weaves it all well. Readers will want to more about the character and what is really going on, setting up multiple storylines and mysteries, all in one shot. Bloodshot's powers are more or less the same with a few upgrades and you will not believe what will happen. You will want to know what will happen next.

   Plotwise and characterizations are solid only to be matched with an insanely swift but fitting pace. This is not a quick read but rather this book is like driving a fast car and going from 5 to 200mph within seconds and possibly go faster. The book is an adrenaline rush on paper.


ART:

    Manuel Garcia and Arturo Lozzi do an exceptional job with their pencils. There seems to be little difference in styles which keep this book flowing extremely well. Garcia and Lozzi should be very proud of their work as Stefano Gaudiano and colorist Ian Hannin; their ink and colors really give some stunning and horrifying panels that really help draw readers in.

  Shadows and lights are where they need to be. Emotion is easily seen and conveyed. Kudos to Garcia, Lozzi, Gaudiano and company for all their work. I was truly grabbed in by the work done in this book.


OVERALL IMPRESSION: 
  Bloodshot #1 is a . . . who am I kidding. Bloodshot #1 is comic book crack! It is addicting. It is violent. It is puzzling. It is GLORIOUS. The characters are full of mystery. You get enough details to want to know more. The art is full of live and just makes you want more and more of it. You want to know Ray. You want answers. And Damn Swierczynski for making this wonderfully violent human weapon into a sympathetic, realistic man.

    You see this man take hits like Wolverine, yet it is not boring or expected like when you see it happen to Wolverine. There is a lot I want to say about the book but I will not spoil it. Swierczynski, Garcia, Lozzi and company have some great magic here. I am just gonna say this.

Buy it. Read it. Own it. Read it again.

With that, I give Bloodshot #1 5 bullets to the head ... out of 5. 

First Impressions: X-O MANOWAR #1

FIRST IMPRESSIONS
X-O MANOWAR (2012) # 1


Written by Robert Venditti
Art by Cary Nord & Stefano Gaudiano
Valiant Comics

Review by Frankie Rodriguez 


INTRODUCTION:

    X-O Manowar was one of the original titles back when Valiant first came out back in the 90s as it went toe to toe with Image Comics for the # 3 comic book company spot. The story of the warrior Aric of Dacia helped fill Valiant with an iconic character that they could build much around. And they did. X-O Manowar had a game. It was one of Valiant's longest running titles.  A man from the past thrown into the present; thanks to aliens and he has advanced, alien armor. And did Valiant made it work. But then, Valiant fell ... not once but twice. So it has returned again. And here is where we pick up at ... a whole new beginning.


FLIPPING THROUGH:

     At the heart of this, we are learning about Aric of Dacia and what happened to him and his people when they were abducted by aliens. Aric, at the time, was fighting alongside his family and the Visgoths against the Romans when Aliens decided to come to Earth and ... well, take some people along.


WRITING:

    With in this first issue, you learn a lot about Aric and at the same time, you learn a little about everything else.  But it is just enough to care. Aric was fighting alongside his family and the Visgoths against the Roman Empire ... and were losing. Yet, you see Aric being proud, stubborn and down right insane as he actually rallies the outnumbered Visgoths into battle. That says a lot about him.

  Aric seems very determined in many of his situations. And I enjoyed Venditti really establishing Aric has this fallible yet heroic character. He knew his father was mortally wounded but would refuse to except that or the despair that would have gone along with it. He set up this one grand setting and then get us another, different yet just as epic setting and did so almost seamlessly.  It worked and worked well. While the other characters in the book seem inconsequential, this is the first issue of a solo book and the hero did shine.


ART:

    I have to give it to Cary Nord. His pencils in this book have never looked better. And I am very familiar with Nord's work, as I followed his work on Mutant X during the late 90s and his work with Daredevil and other titles throughout the decade and a half. Here, Nord's pencils are strong, defined and very gripping. He sets up the characters looks and backgrounds extremely well. Added with Gaudiano's inks, showing us where Aric came from and where he was going felt grand and epic, as a first issue of a solo title should.

  The battle between the Visgoths and Romans were a spectacular to look at if you compared armies. Yet, Nord, Gaudiano and even Moose Baumann's colors really helped set a great tone, grandeur and depth to the book which help sucks readers in. Kudos to this art team cause it works extremely well.


OVERALL IMPRESSIONS:

    This was a strong first launch title for Valiant Comics. It gave us a great set up, a complex yet compelling lead character with a well paced opening story. I want to know more about Aric and how he will get the armor. I want to know more about this story and see what else Nord and Gaudiano will show us in terms of settings, armors and characters.   This book made we want more. And while I would have thought the lack of supporting characters might have been a hinderance, it was not. The spotlight was firmly on our hero and his personality and actions were entertaining.

  With all this, I give Valiant's first relaunch title, X-O Manowar # 1, a 5  . .. out of 5. Great job.