30 Second Review - Batman #8
Since The New 52 reboot last year, the Batman comic series has been consistently earning my respect. In fact, I can confidently say now that it’s my favorite DC comic. Why? Simple: it has solid writing. Each issue has rich storytelling, believable character dialogue, and fantastic moments of suspense.
So with that said, it should come as no surprise that I enjoyed issue #8 a lot. In fact, my only complaint is the artwork — I prefer Tony Scott’s artistic interpretation of the Dark Knight.
I’d love to dive into details about this issue but I don’t want to spoil it for anyone. Check it out now!
FINAL VERDICT: A-
It’s time for some new artwork in the man cave. Here are the current candidates.
More art I like - Justice League
15 Second Review - Ultimate Comics Spider-Man Volume 2
This weekend I caught up on issues #1-8 of Ultimate Comics Spider-Man Vol 2 (because I spend my time wisely). I must say, it’s been an enjoyable experience. I initially had some concerns but its been refreshing to see an entirely new web crawler in the universe and struggle with the duality of being a superhero and a kid.
It’s definitely worth a read.
Final Verdict: Strong B+
30 Second Review - Action Comics #7
By now you might be thinking that I’m being a little too harsh on some of these comics. If that’s the case, check out the following quotes from issue #7 of Action Comics and honestly tell me these aren’t ridiculous:
“Superman” isn’t here to save us, Lois Lane. Fortunately, I am. Because only I have the alien’s cellphone number on ringback.
- Lex Luthor
It’s like “Under The Dome” AND “The Simpsons Movie”
- Jimmy Olsen
So what does your evil alien B.F.F have to say?
- Lois Lane
These are actual quotes; no exaggerations or alterations. I rest my case.
Final Verdict: C-
30 Second Review - Justice League Vol 2 Issue #6
Ugh. In what seems to be an unfortunate pattern now, issue #6 of Justice League Volume 2 is disappointing. Once again, the artwork is absolutely GORGEOUS but everything else (especially the story) falls flat. Without going into spoiler territory here, the writing just seems so… forced. Likewise, the pacing seems off and certain dots aren’t connected too well in the plot progression.
Here’s the deal: If readers go into this looking for a fun, whimsical and entertaining romp, they’ll probably rate it more favorably. For me though, it just misses the mark too many times to overlook.
Final Verdict: C-
15 Second Review - Batman Vol 2 Issue #6
Issue #6 of Batman is an interesting one. It brings a conclusion to a very compelling story arc and features great artwork. I’m a little disappointed that the cliff-hanger from issue #5 was a bit deceiving. That said, it’s still very enjoyable.
Final Verdict: A-
I’ve been listening to the soundtrack for Batman Arkham City again and it’s absolutely stunning. In many ways it reminds me of Jespyr Kid’s work for Assassin’s Creed — haunting… sad… and yet with persistent elements of strength and honor.
Bravo.
30 Second Review - Justice League Volume 2 Issue #5
I can’t help but feel underwhelmed by Justice League Volume 2 Issue 5. It’s a shame too because the artwork is absolutely beautiful and the overarching story has some great promise. In the end though, what kills the experience for me is the cheesy conversations.
Without going into too much detail, the main character dialogue comes off sounding superficial and contrived. The result is an experience that is FAR too close to that of a Saturday morning children’s cartoon — hit-or-miss humor mixed with action.
All that being said, there is a strong potential here and I’ll most likely continue subscribing. It just won’t be at the top of my “must read” list any time soon.
FINAL VERDICT: B-
Thirty Second Review: Batman Vol 2 Issue 5
I’m conflicted. There’s a lot to like about issue 5 of Batman. It continues a fantastic story arch exploring the mysterious Court of Owls and along the way, there is some truly creative artwork.
But…
I still have the same grievances that I had with the preceding 4 issues: story progression is reaaaaalllly slow. So much in fact, that I’m tempted to advise new readers to wait for the inevitable trade paperback to come out.
Final Verdict: B+
Alternate Comics That Are On My Radar
Damn you DC Comics. “The New 52” jump-started my interest in comic books again. Here are a few other series that have piqued my curiosity lately. Full disclosure: I haven’t read all of these… they’re on my “to read” list.
Brilliant artwork and strong candidates for additions to the man cave collection.
Batman volume 2 issue 1 arrived. W00t!
Comics arrived! I’m very impressed with Midtown Comics’ packaging. Non-acidic covers, inverse facing, back-boarded, bubble wrapped AND in a box.
