Welcome Clashers! This is a special look at the titles we've read from the new 52. Now, unfortunately, we were unable to collect all 52 titles for the first six months (I know it's been 7 months but work with me). Now, Hector Ramirez, Darryll Carter & Frankie Rodriguez gives you the break down of the titles they did read and give you a grade. Some of the books were read by only one member of CBC. Others, by 2 and even some by all 3. You will get to see those with multiple opinions at the bottom.
Hector Ramirez
The Good: I’ve always been a big fan of Superman nobody could tell me anything about Clark Kent. So when a retelling of his origin came out I had to read it and I’m not disappointed. First thing I like is he started as an Average Joe type hero and they combined the old with the new. As any true Superman fan knows when Siegel and Schuster first created him, his powers were speed and strength and that’s it. In Action Comics, that was integrated because his powers slowly developed to where they are so he only started off with the basic powers and the rest came with experience. Another thing he actually looks different as Superman than he does as Clark, extremely different which is great but begs the question where do his clothes go since he dresses in layers to hide his physique and is he carrying hair styling products around on his person. The art is good throughout never too cartoony but not exactly full on realism. Story wise I have no real complaints it’s a decent reintroduction to a classic character. There are just a few small elements I’m not so on board with.
The Bad: They take a few elements from Spiderman and I’m not so sure it works with Clark. For instance, the crappy apartment the nosy land lady and the out of his league love interest. I’m not exactly sure how I feel about Clarkworking for a rival newspaper, it really amplifies the whole rivalry between Lois and Clark to the point where there’s almost an animosity between the two. Grade A-
Superman
The Good: Although he’s further along than he is in Action, Clarkis still learning about himself. He isn’t all “I’m Superman and I’m all powerful.” He still isn’t completely in tune with who he is and what he is capable of as a Kryptonian and the first 6 issues deal with that really well. There’s also development of the background characters like Jimmy Olsen and Lois Lane. Story wise it’s pretty solid they don’t stray too far from the Superman legend we all know and love but with very obvious changes that compliment it well like the new threats and of course the awesome new costume. The art is great same as Action no complaints there
The Bad: More Spiderman elements in this one now all of a sudden Superman is considered a menace REALLY!?!?! I kind of felt bad when Clarkwent to see Lois to confess his feelings and a half naked man comes to the door ….FAIL!!! Well, that’s about it for the bad. Grade A
Superboy
The Good: Aww man what can I say about Superboy, character wise he’s one of my favorite revamps so far. He’s a lot more in tune with his powers now and doesn’t come off as a brat or a punk like his first incarnation. He’s a lot more mature and intelligent than he’s been in his entire existence. As for the story element there are no complaints from me, it’s solid and entertaining. I love the way it crosses over with the Titans. The new origin really gives you an in depth look into his character. Without knowledge of his connection to Superman he is his own person not hindered by living in Superman’s shadow.
The Bad: One word, arrogance. His attitude is kind of dark and he doesn’t really adhere to morality. Grade A
Green Lantern
The Good: It completely balances how he is portrayed. Without his ring Hal Jordan is definitely humbled. You also see a less harsh side to Sinestro without taking away from who he is. The story is definitely solid no real gaps.
The Bad: The story is relatively slow not a lot of action in it. For the most part there’s a lot of talking and you don’t really get any memorable moments. Grade C
Darryll Carter
Suicide Squad
The Good: Suicide Squad is on my A list for entertaining and action packed reads within the new 52. Deadshot proves to be a riveting and strong lead character followed up by the illustrious Harley Quinn. Her silly and comical banter adds a nice contrast to the stark and cutthroat behavior of Deadshot and some off the other team members. The premise of Suicide Squad itself is a pleasant departure from the norm of DC’s line up; a team of convicted supervillains, drafted by a secret government organization (presumably CADMUS) headed by Amanda Waller. Speaking of which, they did a great job making Waller actually attractive.
The Bad: Diablo, just might be the most annoying character I’ve had to endure since Jar Jar Binks. All his talk about redemption and refusing to act when the situation calls for tries to throw a wrench in the well oiled machine that is the comic. Good thing Suicide Squad is using KY to stay lubed up. Grade A
Frankie Rodriguez
Animal Man
The Good: Jeff Lemire, Travel Foreman & Steve Pugh display the adventures of not only Buddy Baker, the Animal Man but his family. The mix of horror, drama and super heroics mesh into a unique but enjoyable experience. The opening arc deals with the source of Buddy’s powers, his daughter getting her own abilities and the Hunters, a group that are avatars to a power of death known as the Black. Lemire displays each character with a unique voice and Foreman & Pugh really thrill you with scenes that can be light and fun one minute, then dark, macabre and horrifying the next.
The Bad: The only bad is that I feel not enough people are picking up this book. Sure, it’s # 1 had the most printings besides Justice League # 1 but more and more people should be reading this book.
Grade: A+
Blue Beetle
The Good: Blue Beetle was one of those books were clamoring for before the New 52 was in place. They were clamoring for it since the previous Blue Beetle ongoing was canceled a few years ago. THIS Blue Beetle book starts out with very familiar settings and people we know. Yet, it quickly changes to something VERY different from it’s predecessor. No longer holding Jamie Reyes’ origin to Infinite Crisis, this new origin has Jamie stumbling to the scarab during a battle between 2 villain factions. Artist Ig Guara is a real find. He has a great level of versatility with him as an artist: making space seem vast and wonderous while making El Paso, Texas feel very connected with community and small. Tony Bedard sees to really keep the book fresh with twisting familiar concepts from the previous series on its ear; building something new and different for Jamie Reyes. The pieces of Spanish sprinkled on the script adds to the books authenticity while displaying Jamie as a reluctant but smart hero. There were a lot of elements here that just made me re-read the book several times.
The Bad: While there are some great work from Ig Guara over all, drawing women that are not in normal clothes seem a bit lacking. I don’t know if it’s Phobia’s new look or Guara’s art that makes Phobia look like a Jade after she bleached her skin and got bald during Mortal Kombat. My one gripe about Bedard’s writing is that this first storyline was paced well, yet could have very well stretched out longer. I understand DC wants to put their best foot forward but Jamie’s difficulties of not revealing himself to his family while living with them could have went Far longer. The first few plots, in my mind, could have taken up the first year of the book and really establishes Jamie and his plight before leaving (much like what Scott Synder is doing with Batman but more on that later). Overall, the story was good … even great but there was more potential to let things go at a slower burn.
Grade: B-
Mr. Terrific
The Good: Now, here is a book I was looking forward to. Mister Terrfic Michael Holt has been one of my favorite creations in comics within the last decade. The new Mister Terrific more than lived up to his successor; he surpassed it. And when I read this new series, it elevated him even further. Eric Wallace turned Michael Holt to one of the smartest heroes on Earth to one of the smartest people on the planet. The third smartest in fact. There was a great amount of new concepts that were introduced with a supporting cast that included Karen Starr (hmm .. . Power Girl anyone?) that really seemed to work for Michael. His new origin was filled with tragedy but still ended up being up lifting in an odd way. There were levels of Mr. Fantastic concepts that Mister Terrific was doing and it was Glorious. I read the first issue 3 times. Which gets me to the next part of this report . ..
The Bad: Right now, I am gonna say that art is perspective. We all have our tastes. And normally, art is not the biggest issue on a book for me. NORMALLY. Unfortunately, this is NOT normally. The art for Mister Terrific span from awful to pretty good to ewww. And there are things about the first two issues that always make me cringe … not in a good way. Particularly the panel of Michael’s “son”, who is looking especially sinister and psychotic for a moment. Whether it was on purpose or not, it just did not work. It make the book feel off. The best artist in the first several issues was Scott Clark, currently artist over on Grifter. Yet, Clark has had better inkers and shading when he first started on Stormwatch back in the 90s than in his issue of Mister Terrific. I love a good story but this is comics. Art has to have some fact. And I was so hopeful for this book but I dropped it after issue # 4. I am sorry. I think that the artists on this project did not fit Wallace’s style or what he needed … except for Scott Clark. And now that it’s getting cancelled, I wish this book was given a better chance.
Grade: C-
Frankenstein: Agent of S.H.A.D.E.
The Good: Okay. When this book was first announced, I was intrigued by its concept and how well I enjoyed the Frankenstein and the Creature Commandos miniseries during Flashpoint. This was something else … and I seemed to like it. The characters had mostly blank slates. S.H.A.D.E. was another organization that was being added to all sorts of other organizations on Earth but seemed a little different. There was some strong characterizations. Some great plots were used and the characters and story moved at a great pace. Artistically, it took a bit to get used to the art but after the third issue, I found myself in love with the look of the book.
The Bad: While I love the fact that Frankenstein is obviously the main focus, there are times were I would like to see a little more of the Creature Commandos. Not much more but a bit more so we can really get to feel more connected to them. And while I liked the cliffhangers and the characters, there were times when I read this book and paused. The art does take some getting used to. At first, you don’t think it fits but it does. The crossover with OMAC didn’t do the title many favors.
Grade: B
Batwing
The Good: Dear Lord, Jeebus, Lords of Cobalt and all other entities, this book is GLORIOUS. Winick hits a home run on this title. Meet David Zavimbe, the Batman of Africa and a hero in his own right. But David is very different from Bruce. Living in Tinasha, the largest city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Batwing must face the trials of drug lords, war lords and more as he sets himself as a symbol for his people. It is also a way of redemption for David. The opening arc has not finished yet but could not be any more interesting to watch and fun to read. Winick brings to life Batwing and his dark world in Tinasha as we look at not only Batwing but his city, his countries legends and a main antagonist that may or may not have connections to our hero. This is all beautifully rendered by Ben Oliver and Chriscross. Thus making this book a true sight to behold.
The Bad: This book should also be in everyone’s pull list. It is a very different book with a unique character. Not even the fill in artist made a dent to this story. Nothing bad here.
Grade: A+
Hawk & Dove
The Good: This book kinda of called to me because of listening to Sterling Gates talk about how excited he was to write this book and work with Rob Liefield. That kind of infectious excitement prompted me to pick up the first issue … and the next 3 issue. The story is actually fairly solid with some great character bits from Hawk and Dove as well as this new supporting cast they were building around them. The mystery behind the original Dove and Deadman were also welcome editions; making this partnership feel a bit more unique. The new Avatars plot as good with good strong build up. And the first 2 issues had some really good pencils from Rob Liefield. Yes … I just said that sentence. But . . .
The Bad: The first 2 issues aside, things were starting to go downhill real fast. Liefield’s art began to look lazy in comparison to the work he was doing for Robert Kirkman’s The Infinite … which had the same inker as well. The lower quality of art work continued on till the end of the first arc which was disappoint. There were points in issue # 4 where some panels had more detail on the characters than others . .. on the same page. That really interrupted the flow of the story. And the story itself began to feel really rushed at the end. Like Blue Beetle, Hawk & Dove felt a bit crapped to me and would have really done much better with the first storyline taking over a set of 8 to 12 issues. Honestly, it is a shame cause Sterling Gates usually hits people with quality work. Yet, this project, along with Rob Liefield, the end seemed to be lacking. And unlike Mr. Terrific, I did not feel the need to reread issue 1 or 2.
Grade: D+
Voodoo
The Good:
Out of all the Wildstorm titles that came over to the DCU proper, Voodoo was a big surprise. While she’s had miniseries before, this was the first ongoing for the character. And good lord, was this ongoing starting off with a bang. Pricilla Kitaen keeps her stripper roots, at least for the first issue, but quickly shifts into a murder mystery. The book’s support cast only seems to add to that mystery. And as former writer Ron Marz said, we are still not sure which side Voodoo is on. That only becomes even more confusing when current scribe Josh Williamson takes over. Sami Basri’s art really helps keep this book looking sleek, sexy and versatile … much like the character. And Yes, I meant the double entondra. Voodoo looks as sexy and beautiful as she is intelligent and deadly. Really, a strong outing by DC with this book and we are all the better for it.
The Bad: At first, I would think that the transition between Ron Marz to Josh Williamson would be fairly smooth. But reading Marz’s last issue (# 4) and Williamson’s first issue (#5), it was not. It felt a little bumpy in the transition. While the main themes were there, there were some changes. And while some of those changes added to what Marz had done, there are several that just seemed to make me scratch my head. Particularly, the whole full breed to half breed Daemonites subplot. Voodoo herself seemed to be a contradiction at times but over all, true to the core of her character that was established by Ron Marz. Yet, there are some good, slight changes in character.
Grade: B+
Aquaman
The Good: You know all those jokes about Aquaman in Robot Chicken? How about your friends saying how lame a super hero who can communicate with fish? Sound familiar. Well, Geoff Johns & Ivan Reis, creators behind Green Lantern and the Blackest Night maxiseries, are gonna change your perceptions. This book is unadulterated fun. It clearly knows about all the heckling people have given Aquaman over the years and uses it to really establish Aquaman as a hero not to be messed with. And not just him, but Mera as well. The book establishes a brand new status quo for the former Atlantean King, sets up two very different yet horrifying new threats, rebuilds Aquaman and Mera’s reputations from jokes to bada**** and overall gives you a taste of the universe under the sea. Sound characterizations and a different attitude that work with this couple help make this book a great read.
The Bad: The only real issue with the book is how often John tries to prove that both Mera and Arthur are not a joke. I can understand that it is not going away in time. Yet, the frequency of it is what feels a little off to me. Particularly in issue # 6 with Mera as she is just looking to shop for dog food, how the cops, in the town she had just saved merely 2 issues before, still mock her. Other than that, this book is perfect.
Grade: A-
Green Lantern: New Guardians
The Good: Tony Bedard does a good job writing space dramas and Kyle Rayner as we get to see Kyle stand out in this book. The characters that make up the cast of New Guardians are some of the most diverse in GL history and Kyle really shines as we find him able to take on the ring of any of the main corps, except Black or White. The worlds are amazing. The characters are of all shapes and sizes. And Tyler Kirkham renders these beautifully. This team works extremely well together and I look forward to more of Kyle and his team’s adventures every month.
The Bad: My only real quip is that there seems to be a lack of Balance with the other characters. While I can understand that Kyle is the main character of the books, the spotlight needs to shine a little more on the other characters to make it feel a bit more balance. Otherwise, solid book.
Grade: A-
Stormwatch
The Good: Out of all the Wildstorm properties coming into the DC proper, this was the one that I looked forward to the most. Stormwatch is a secret group saving the world from larger threats that the Justice League barely knew about; much less dealt with. And these threats seem a little out of the ordinary. Cornell does a wonderful job scripting characters old and new to the title to build a status quo, only to shake it and rebuild it. The characters seem real and he made Martian Manhunter fit perfectly into the group; giving J’onn J’onzz a different kind of depth. New characters the Eminence of Blades and the Projectionist were seemingly fitting both the Wildstorm and DC molds. And making this the start of the now-fan favorite couple of Apollo and Midnighter was a great mood. Miguel Sepulveda gives some of the best work of his career with Stormwatch. Engineer looks elegant and strong. Jenny Quantum has the charm of a little girl. Apollo has a more relaxed look but still powerful yet unsure of what he wants to do. Martian Manhunter looks alien yet friendly and reserved. All in all, I could not put this book down and I love every second of it.
The Bad: The only thing that makes it go down a bit was the fill in artist that help Sepulveda. While their styles don’t completely clash, it will take away from the book slightly. Sepulveda’s art really shines in these books and the other artist are good but are overshadowed a little. Yet, it doesn’t hinder the story much at all. This is still a beautiful series this far.
Grade: A-
Swamp Thing
The Good: Okay. This is the OTHER regular DC title that Synder writes. And honestly, it made me care about Swamp Thing. Honestly, I have yet to really read much of him over the years. And there were good parts of other runs but I didn’t want to collect Swamp Thing … until now. This book is rich in characterization, horror and drama. Good storylines that would make a great show to have right after “The Walking Dead” (hint, hint AMC & DC). The plight of Alec Holland has been a joy to read and Synder brings his A game to this book. Both artist really give the book a great sense of flare, utilizing Swamp Thing itself for panel work. The characters are multifaceted, real and dynamic. The comic never feels breezy. It feels like its still 32 to 40pages when its only 20. And it made me care about Alec Holland and Swamp Thing.
The Bad: The book made me care about SWAMP THING! SWAMP THING.
Grade: A+
Hector Ramirez & Darryll Carter
Nightwing
Hector:
I’ll start off with the art, I’m probably going to sound like a broken record throughout this entire report card but I love the art of the entirety of my new DCu collection so to avoid such redundancy I’ll avoid speaking of the art unless I disapprove of it or unless I have something specific to mention. I like the red symbol as opposed to the blue, it just seems to fit better not exactly sure why. The nostalgic use of Nightwing’s original costume as the uniform of the Flying Graysons is definitely a nice touch. Towards the beginning and in later issues the story was really good with plenty of suspense and action. Not much to say in the way of negativity. If I were to complain about Nightwing in any way, it would be about the few filler issues that didn’t really fit into the main story. Grade A
Hector
Darryll:
I love the inclusion of Haley’s Circus and how the plot revolved around it. Dick has learned from his time as Batman and matured into a fine hero, while still retaining his quirks. The plot focuses on old wounds and secrets that beg you to read on for more. I wasn’t too fond of the random filler issue in Louisiana, but maybe it factors in to a plot later on down the road. Grade A
FINAL GRADE: A
The Flash
Hector :
Definitely hooked on this book for the long run. The Flash has always been one of my favorite DC characters and as time goes on there is always more to like. Not much has changed during the new 52 with Barry except he isn’t with Iris and I don’t know how I feel about that. I think I see where they’re headed with this possibly killing off Patty to replace her with Iris and that would piss me off if another Peter Parker element is ripped off. Other than that the story is great I like the reintroduction to Captain Cold and the introduction to Mob Rule. Grade A-
Darryll:
They really have Barry stuck in a Peter Parker sort of trap. He does good, but no matter how much good he does it seems to have an unfortunate side effect; emps shorting out the Gem Cities and space/time rifts opening up from tapping to deeply into the speed force. They really set the stage for Flash as a story about choices and it really shines through.The Flash was the hero and cause of the Flashpoint event. As such he was the only character who remembered the world that existed before the events of Flashpoint. But he doesn’t seem to recall it, at least he hasn’t hinted at it. Also I’m a bit disappointed that they let Barry hook up with Patty only to have her hold such disdain for the Flash. It makes for great drama and a great story. But in the end it seems it will only drive them apart and chase Barry back in to the arms of Iris West. I was hoping for something different this time around? I’m not a fan of Iris. Grade: A+
FINAL GRADE: A
Batman: The Dark Knight
Hector:
Love it!!! You see Bruce go through a bit of his rogues’ gallery within the span of six issues. The story is pretty good there’s definitely suspense action and twists throughout. Batman is one of the characters the relaunch didn’t really effect and rightfully so, Bruce can’t really be improved, he’s fine as is. It’s like the old saying goes if it ain’t broke don’t fix it. Bringing back Bane and making him smarter was genius it’s like when Braniac took over Doomsday, major problem. I also like how the JLA was involved, you don’t get that to often in newer Batman titles. It was refreshing. Grade A+
Darryll:
Grade: B-
FINAL GRADE: B+
Hector Ramirez & Frankie Rodriguez
Static Shock
Hector:
As a fan of the animated series that’s what I went in expecting. Not saying that I was disappointed I have been enjoying the series. Having Hardware as his mentor was a definite plus. I’m not sure what it was but this title didn’t really catch me. I know one negative is the whole clone bit, I mean why? Thing is, while I enjoy the book, I’d rather watch the cartoon. Grade C
Frankie:
This was one of the books I was looking forward to the most. I am a HUGE Milestone fan and loved the original ongoing from the 90s. And now that Static had a new ongoing, I was looking forward to a lot more. And then I read this book and it hurt a little bit. Let me explain. While there are good, solid character pieces done by both Rozum & McDaniel, the thing I loved most about Static seemed to be missing; his regular life. Sure. He’s a super hero. But what made the original ongoing so good and so well received by fans was the balance between regular life and super hero life that Virgil had. That balance was not here at all and it was disappointing. Sure, we got bits of Virgil in school but most of the issues were given to the villains and their subplots. Rozum & McDaniel are good writers but this felt very much like just watch the last half of a Static episode … you know, where he fights the bad guy and make 2 minutes on personal life. That balance is what sinks the book in my opinion. Otherwise, the extra plots were interesting. The mentor-student relationship between Hardware and Static was really a great idea. And I do like these new villains. Artistically, McDaniel does a good job but he needs better inkers. His older Nightwing or Daredevil were was better.
Grade: C –
FINAL GRADE: C-
Demon Knights
Hector:
I like the way Arthurian legend was integrated into the story. The story is kind of slow. I mean, a lot of the story consists of them waiting for their pursuers to ravage the town they’ve taken refuge in. Honestly, I haven’t read past issue 3. I lost interest in the characters and the story. Jason Blood was more interesting in modern day honestly. Grade C-
Frankie:
One of the best things about this title is how quickly it established itself and something very different from the rest while connected to the modern DCU and folklore. With classic characters with new roles such as The Demon, Jason Blood, Madame Xandu & Vandal Savage mixed with brand new characters build a tapestry of super powered beings during the Medieval times. Strong pencils from both Diogenes Nieves & Mike Choi has really give the mythical beauty and danger that the books setting has and really establishes the characters’ looks well. And I can honestly say that this book has the best quotes of nearly every other comic out there. With lines like “Die, Tasty Rare Creatures!”, it is a wonder while writer Cornell has made this book a treat. I don’t think enough people are reading this book. It fuses super heroics into Arthurian and other mythologies well. It is fun, well-developed, and beautiful to look at. You will want more and more. Seriously, this book is GLORIOUS!!!
Grade: A+
FINAL GRADE: B
Justice League
Frankie:
I am gonna be real blunt about this: Justice League was fun. It was a blockbuster movie that you know will have multiple sequels. It was grand, widescreen and full of energy. And I liked it. But I did not love it. Sure, I loved parts of it but there seriously was this Summer Blockbuster feel going on with the book. I can understand why. This was the Justice League. Great character bits between the League and the actual formation was pretty good. I am in the minority that actually liked that it took till issue 4 for the entire team to get together. There were great one-liners and Jim Lee really gives some of his best work in years. Which saddens me cause now I will talk about the bad. The main cast had a very lopsided amount of air time with Cyborg, Batman and Green Lantern getting the most. It worked for them some what but it did hurt the other members as they came in. I love the fact that the team's first enemy is not a giant star fish but an evil deity from another planet. Yet, the final battle seemed a tad . .. anti climactic. I can understand it is building towards much more in the future and there is definite promise here, yet ... I found that it felt like it felt a little flat. It was good to watch and entertaining, epic even but those feelings seem to come real quickly and leave just as fast. Decide build up. Good job getting them together. Yet, the book itself felt lacking meat. This story was WAY too breezy for my tastes and I know Geoff Johns can do better. It is a decent start though.
Grade: C+
FINAL GRADE: B+
Darryll Carter & Frankie Rodriguez
Batgirl
Darryll:
Simone does a great job of bringing Babs back in to the fold. Her early battles in the series are tumultuous and she makes a few mistakes. But before long she’s back to her old self; confident, tactical and graceful.Babs' return has sadly come with the loss of her Oracle persona. With that loss of that very important chunk of her life leaves over ten years of character development rendered invalid. That’s a shame. I would have rather had Oracle over a Barbara Batgirl that never was. Besides, I miss Stephanie anyway. Grade B
Frankie:
This is ANOTHER book that spawned a lot of controversy cause of having former Oracle, Barbara Gordon, use her legs again. Many fans, at first, seemed against the idea as many had warmed up to Stephanie Brown as Batgirl and gotten used to Barbara Gordon in a wheelchair. Even writer Gail Simone was initially against it. Then after thinking about Barbara knowing most of the hero community and all the fantastic tech and magic they possess; why couldn’t they do something to make her walk on her legs again? It happened and Barbara returned to being Batgirl and boy … the book is SEVERLY under rated. Simone has been writing Barbara Gordon for nearly a decade and this Barbara is the same … just a little younger and can walk again after being paralyzed. There are great character bits with her. A new supporting cast that keeps Barbara on her toes and Barbara’s own rogues gallery is shaping up to being one of the best in comics: up there with Spidey’s, The Flash’s and Batman’s. THIS is how you write a book with a female lead. This is how you write Barbara Gordon. Whether in the wheelchair or not, she is somewhat insecure but still willing to do what she needs to. I love this book. Adrian Syf is really delving into his own style that makes the book wonderful to look at. And while even I miss Stephanie Brown, Barbara Gordon was the first and best Batgirl. Thank you Gail Simone!!!
Grade: A+
FINAL GRADE: A-
Batwoman
Darryll:
To find out what he thinks, read Batwoman review. Grade A
Frankie:
Dear God, this may be the most gorgeous book I have every feasted my eyes on in comics. And yes, that is putting it up there with Alex Ross’s work. Batwoman is by far one of the most innovative, aggressively different and forward thinking books I have read in years. Kate Kane shines through the darkness with her multifacet personality. Kudos to both writers for really developing Kate into a very strong woman who deserves her own book. The panel work alone makes this book a must by as Williams does some beautify rendered art. Reeder’s art can be just as good. The bad in Batwoman really deals with the art in the last issue and I don’t think Amy Reeder is to blame. Let me explain. The cover for Batwoman # 6 from Reeder is gorgeous. And some of the panel work is too. But there are other panels that just seem rushed. Maybe it is the inker or the colorist but the panels that came out Batwoman # 6 go from awesome to eww. Maybe the issue was a rush job but that is what makes it fall down a little bit.
Grade: A-
FINAL GRADE: A
Red Hood & the Outlaws
Darryll:
Red Hood and the Outlaws… The rag tag trinity of former Robin, Jason Todd, former Green Arrow sidekick, Arsenal and former Titan, Starfire is superb. The creative team really took these three and molded them together. And they did it well. The major lure of this comic is seeing how Jason has grown from the selfish and abrasive brat that he was and into the cold, witty, stoic warrior he became and now back to the team player and leader he was maybe always meant to be. Grade A
Frankie:
Okay. Scott Lobdell wrote this and was instantly immersed into controversy cause of Starfire’s actions in the first issue. Some fans were disgusted by those actions and swore off the book. And that just made me shake my head saying “It’s the first issue” and “ You weren’t bitching when she was sleeping with Captain Comet to get over Dick, were you?” In one issue, Lobdell had become a pariah, much like the 3 main characters within the book. Red Hood, Arsenal and Starfire were immediately showing that they were like other heroes. That they were the unwanted, the broken and they wanted to just make a way in life. That is what I saw and decided to keep continuing to read the book. The trio grew on me and the art was EXCEPTIONALLY good. Starfire looked gorgeous while Red Hood and Arsenal were rugge. The plots were interesting and the book has a very good pace. I am sorry and I am sure I am gonna get a lot of “REALLYS??” from this one by this book is actually really good. Honestly, the only thing that has brought down the book is that it seemed more heavy on Arsenal and Red Hood and not so much on Starfire … till issue # 4 & 6. While I don’t consider this a must have, it is a good book with an interesting adventure.
Grade: B+
FINAL GRADE: A-
Catwoman
Darryll:
Catwoman starts off on a steamy note. By the end of the first issue she’s already in the pants of Batman and taking him to the dark side. It’s intriguing to see how Selena actually operates and forms her schemes, as well as how she uses every tool at her disposal to hatch or dispatch a plan.I’m a little disappointed that Selena is portrayed as a greener, newb version of herself. It seems somewhat out of order for her to be a greenhorn and Batman and Nightwing to already be the seasoned fighters that they are. You really mean to tell me Bruce has been through four Robins and Selena still can’t figure out her ins and outs? No. Way. Grade A
Frankie:
This is another book filled with controversy. Why? Cause Catwoman has sex with Batman … again. Whoop-tie Frellin’ Doo. Like that hasn’t happened over the course of the last 75 years or so. Really, this book re-examines what makes Selina Selina and brings out new facets to her that seem to really fit her character. Gullem March is doing a superb job with the art, making Catwoman sexy one moment and dangerous the next. The book exudes risk, reward and sex. Yet, it is still tastefully done while adding different dimensions to the character. Catwoman is kind of a double edged sword. While I love the new multifaceted versions of her, there are a bit of character inconsistencies that I did not enjoy. I think it was Winick stumbling to get used to her character now. Which is fine but still detracts things just a little bit. And Gullem does draw a great book but there are some inconstant levels of panel work here and there throughout the first 6 issues. Kind of a pain but not too bad.
Grade: B
FINAL GRADE: B+
Wonder Woman
Darryll:
Major cudos to whichever member of this creative team came up with the concepts for each god. Hades with melting candles over his head and Hera with her peacock cloak are only a few of the amazing concepts illustrated within the new 52’s Wonder Woman title. Depending on how well versed you are in Greek mythology you can pick out some characters just from their appearance and speech. I’d also like to take my hat off to using Diana’s original ‘clay’ origin as a lie to segue into her new origin as a demigod and daughter of Zeus. The artist does a good job of illustrating the comic in way that it feels like it is part of the Greek mythos. What the hell was up with the character design for Poseidon? He was like a grade A cluster #$#@ of a Right Whale, a seashell, some squid tentacles, a seal, a crab? He was like a failed Poke’mon. Grade A+
Frankie:
There was a lot of controversy with this book. First, it was cause of the outfit. Originally, the new 52 Wonder Woman had pants. And fans complained. Then, it was cause the origin that Wonder Woman and readers have always known her by was a lie. A big, fat lie. Wonder Woman is the daughter of Zeus. And honestly, Diana has been better for the origin change. (the Pants thing does not bother me) Azzarello has craft a new look to the pantheons of myth that are horrifying, charismatic and down right amazing. A new supporting cast gives Diana some fresh blood. And for the first time in a long time, Diana feels like her solo book can stand up to the other 2 in DC’s hero trinity. There is gore. The Gods may not be pretty. There are subplots in place and we are seeing the mythology in a brand new light. Azzarello said that Wonder Woman is a horror book and dear god, the book is better for it. Cliff Chiang really stylizes Diana for this new age and makes her both beautiful and deadly. Diana is surely living up to the Goddess she was named after. Bad? Um … how about nothing bad and buy the book.
Grade: A+
FINAL GRADE: A+ (duh)
Hector Ramirez/Darryll Carter/Frankie Rodriguez
Justice League Dark
Hector:
The whole idea of a mystical branch of the Justice League intrigued me so I read a few issues then I remembered how slow paced mystical based comics can be this one being no exception. First off it jumped all over the place confusing the crap out of me. Secondly, not much action to speak of. And it was just kind of weird not my cup of tea. Interesting concept not played out very well. Grade C-
Darryll:
Grade B
Frankie:
This series was something I was looking forward to. And you know what ... it didn't disappoint ... much. First, the art was beautiful, gothic and really helped set the mood and tone for the series. The characters were interesting and multi-dimension: particularly June Moone, Deadman, John Constantine & Zatanna. They made the book a joy to watch. The threat of Enchantress brewing and the conspiracy behind that threat made the book that much more entertain. Unfortunately, the ending was anti climatic and it just opened up more issues for this group of people; and not all of it in a good way. The threat of Enchantress was built up so well that I felt like a strong, nearly issue long conclusion was coming and yet ... no big conclusion. Some quick McGuffin type deal was done and there you go. And that ticked me off. I enjoyed the book thoroughly till then. The pay off SUCKED with the exception of the last couple pages where Constantineis being a douchebag. The art is amazing. The story is great till the end. And ... the character of Mindwarp didn't really add much, in my opinion. Such a grand start to end on a sour note.
Grade: B-
FINAL GRADE: B-
Batman & Robin
Hector:
To be honest, I hated Damien Wayne at first impression. He’s arrogant, rude and cold. But as I read on he started to grow on me. He is full of surprises and he definitely is Bruce’s son no questions asked. His mind works well beyond that of a 10 year old. He’s highly intelligent, conniving and cunning. The whole father son dynamic plays off very well you see they both care for each other but have strange ways of showing it. The struggle between both as father and son as well as Batman and Robin makes for a great comic book. Grade A+
Darryll:
Everyone at first glance, you may think that the lure of Batman and Robin is Damian Wayne. When in actuality it is the father son relationship. The two characters have to grow together and Bruce has to fulfill a certain need for a troubled child. He’s had lots of practice, but somehow this kid being blood has changed his approach.It saddens me that Bruce seems to care more about how he influences Damian, than he did the three wards that came before him. Also, after having gone through three Robins, four if we count Stephanie Brown’s short reign, Bruce still has not learned how to talk to a child and tell them what they need to hear. Grade A
Frankie:
Okay. I knew I was gonna pick up this book for 2 reason: 1 – Damian Wayne; my new favorite bastard that I want to smack some days and other days I just want to cheer him on. And 2 – Bruce & Damian working together. Damian is a very different Robin than Dick, Tim or even Jason. Damian was raised to be a killer. And he’s got a disposition that give Bruce a run for his money at times. So, while Robin used to be the light over Batman’s dark, this time around it is a near role reversal. Bruce is also a full fledged, biological father. Damian is his blood, his son. And while he did adopt Dick, Tim & Jason, this is different for Bruce. Bruce is now in the role of being the actual father and Peter Tomasi takes FULL advantage of that. Patrick Gleason’s pencils are dark, stylish and macabre when it needs to be. It works extremely well for the two main characters and their adversary this time. The story is multilayered and the examinations of Bruce trying to be a dad while Damian just being a regular boy are gripping. NoBody is a great new foil for both Bruce and Damian. Yet, there are parts of the issues that seemed a little hurried; I don’t know if it was the penciler or the inker. The over all tone of the story is moving but the more hurried panels take the steam away from the story.
Grade: B+
FINAL GRADE: A
Teen Titans
Hector:
So far, this title has been phenomenal. I’ve not been disappointed by a single panel yet. I was slightly annoyed by Cassie’s disdain for being called Wonder Girl but as I read on it starts to make sense. Besides being a highly powered meta human female with a lasso, there is no real correlation between her and Diana. The story, so far, has been great an air of mystery lingers over the whole thing. As for the new costume designs, I love them. Some are iffy on Tim’s wings. I think they’re cool. Grade A
Darryll:Best thing about Teen Titans for me right now is what they’ve done with Cassandra. She retained her feisty side and gained a costume makeover that puts Donna Troy’s outfit to shame.Sadly I can’t say the same thing about Tim’s costume. I’m not a fan of it, especially the wings. I also would have rather had more mainstream teens in the Titans. But brining back previous recruits from the last era isn’t that bad. Grade B+
Frankie:
Now, we get into interesting territory. The Teen Titans had its own share go controversy with the inclusion of brand new gay teen member Bunker and the fact that Scott Lobdell was writing it. Skitter has not really grabbed me. Do I feel sorry for her plight? At first I did, but her personality makes me wish she wasn’t on the team. I understand that Solstice was a blank slate for the most part but I missed her pervious, golden incarnation compared to her current one. Red Robin took me a second to adjust to with him being described as an ‘Oracle’ like character for a minute; then we saw him, in his new costume in action and it was glorious. Kid Flash’s origin is now dipped with mystery & I like it. Superboy and Wonder Girl have gone through the most change. And honestly, these changes are for the better. Wonder Girl’s new background & attitude has helped elevate the character while Superboy is a bit more intelligent and cunning … and seemingly stronger. And while the main plots have been good, I haven’t felt really wow-ed until their first showdown with Superboy. Brett Booth’s art is amazing and really makes this book come to life. Although, the continuity inconsistency: mainly the fact whether or not the Teen Titans existed before, makes it frustrating to fully enjoy. And it just seems like the Titans magic isn’t quite there yet. I like the book but I don’t love it. Yet, there is potential. We’ll see what happens.
Grade: C+
FINAL GRADE: B
Batman
Hector:
Just WOW!!! The set up for this Major crossover couldn’t have been better. The introduction to the Court of Owls added a great element to the world of Batman, it poses a serious threat which makes for good reading. The fact that such a serious threat has stayed hidden beneath Bruce’s nose this whole time and are capable of such insane things such as bringing Batman himself to the brink of insanity. It shows Gothamhas a real problem on their hands, and that just makes me all giddy inside:-p Grade A+
Darryll:
Batman paints a not so pretty picture of a Batman that doesn’t know everything there is about Gotham City. It shows us a Bruce that can be broken, beaten and rattled. The Court of Owls have Batman watching his own shadow. They have him worried. That’s not easily done and that alone makes this title worth reading. Grade A
Frankie:
I am gonna make this short and sweet. Oh Dear God! THIS BOOK IS GLORIOUS. Synder is writing some of the best books in comics but this has to be my favorite of his work. It is smart. It is well written. Great, multilayered characterizations. He made Gotham City into his own character and created probably THE Signature villains for Batman for the next century with the Court of Owls. Add Capullo giving the book a great mix of dark and gothic with the more surreal tones of the storyline (which has not finished yet). The panel work is also amazing, allowing readers to truly be immersed into the book. You cannot escape this book once you read it. Great use of 20 pages and making them feel like 40 pages in a GOOD way. Synder & Capullo are making a Batman comic novel and I am loving every, last second of it. Not reading this book is a crime against man & nature. READ THIS BOOK!
Grade: A+
FINAL GRADE: A (almost a +)
And that is the DC New 52 report card. It is looking pretty good for most of DC's titles that we've read. Look for another report card with all these and more titles come October. Till then, for all of us here in CBC and J1 Studios, Keep Clashing!!
SHADOWMAN # 16
