Spider-man's Tangled Web #5

Did you ever wonder how the Rhino sleeps or how he spends a Saturday night?  I mean, the guy is covered in enhanced rhino skin and has a horn on his head.

Ever wonder what it takes to really get under that thick skin?

This issue (along with the next) help to shed some light on the man known as the Rhino.

We open with a girl being held hostage.  There's a rumbling in the distance and the Rhino breaks through the wall.  He scoops up the girl and runs off.  She smiles at him, the Rhino's heart melts.  Then he realizes she's not smiling at him, but at Spider-man - who just happened be there w/ a full camera crew.  Rhino takes Stella (the girl he rescued) to a waiting limo, then proceeds to get his butt kicked on camera.

Rhino goes to jail, breaks out and goes to see a doctor.  Rhino wants his skin off; he can't find happiness.  He sleeps on a bed of cinder block and spends money on women who don't care whether he lives or dies.  The dude from the limo shows up while Rhino's drowning his sorrows and offers him another job protecting Stella.  He accepts and takes down the thugs holding Stella and thinks he'll get a hero's welcome.

He receives a tongue lashing; basically, Stella calls him an idoit.

So, Rhino goes to his doctor to get a procedure done - one that will give him the one thing he lacks: smarts.

Now, this is the beginning of a nice little 2 part story - the art is okay, but nothing to write home about.  It tries to be realistic, but it's kind of hard to make a guy in rhino skin look believable.  Also. at times, the line weight is way to heavy.

But, the pay off comes in the next issue.  Until then, happy reading!

Credits:

Written by Peter Milligan
Art by Duncan Fegredo

Spider-man's Tangled Web #4

After the 3 issue "The Thousand" story, Marvel offers this wonderful one-off issue called Severance Package. 

It's late at night, and a phone rings at Tom Cochrane's house and tells him to turn on the news.  It's a story about how Spider-man has foiled a delivery of illegal guns.  Tom breaks out in a could sweat and his wife starts weeping.  The phone rings again and a voice tells Tom to be ready in an hour.

Turns out Tom set up the deal that went bad and the Kingpin is pissed.  Tom puts on his nicest suit and, after contemplating taking the easy way out, leaves his family and gets in the car.

The drive is a young lackey named Richie, who recently botched a Chinatown deal.  Outside of the Kingpin's building, Tom clocks Richie, steals his gun and shoots him in the head.

In the elevator, Tom heads up to the penthouse, where the Kingpin waits.  After telling the Kingpin about Richie, Tom asks about his family.  The Kingpin tells Tom he was a reliable man and tell Tom to attack him.  Tom shots at the Kingpin, misses on purpose, and the Kingpin chokes him to death.  We close on a scene with the Kingpin on the phone telling his associate to leave Tom's family alone.

What an awesome issue.  Spider-man is in one panel, but he can be felt through out the entire story.  Does Spider-man realize his actions cause harm no matter what he does?  Had he not stopped the guns, Tom would have lived - but he kept guns off the streets, so a man died.  Heavy story.  The art is good - not great.  There are a couple stand out panels where the subtlety is the high light.

All around a satisfying read.

Well, time to go Christmas shopping.  Until then - happy reading!

Credits:

Written by - Garth Ennis
Art by - Eduardo Risso

Spider-man's Tangled Web #3

Last issue ended on a cliff hanger: Spider-man was paralyzed, tied to a chair and spiders were pouring out of his former co-worker's mouth.

This issue opens with a new kind of hero: the landlord.  He walks in just as the Thousand (what the spiders call themselves) are about to consume Spidey.  They then turn their attention toward the unfortunate guy and wear his skin like a suit.

This issue is pretty much just an extended rooftop fight scene.  The Thousand's jealous of Spider-man's life and Spider-man says he's got nothing to envy.  We then get a glimpse of how the Thousand came to be.  He ate the spider that bit Peter that fateful day.

So,the paralyzing venom wears off and they fight; the Thousand ends up getting electrocuted and falling off the roof.

One spider of the Thousand survives and is promptly stomped on in the street.  Nice ending.

The art is a touch to static - the 2 previous issues felt much more fluid.  This was a fitting ending for this story and I put the book down feeling satisfied.  Guess the moral here is the grass is aways greener on the other side.  Spidey's life to an outsider looks like a good time, but in truth it is filled with little but loss.

Might keep going w/ this series for a time - we'll see what I feel like doing when I get a free minute to read.

Until then, happy reading!

Credits:

Written by - Garth Ennis
Art by - John McCrea and James Hodgkins

Spider-man's Tangled Web #2

Last issue introduced Carl King, a bully from Peter's past who attacked a secretary at the Bugle.  After the attack, we see the secretary walk out w/ the bully's skin hanging in the closet.  Creepy.

Now, this bully know all about the dual life Peter lives, but we do know he's super jealous and super pissed.

Pete ticks off his current girlfriend, Skye, at a party and ends up walking home alone, soaked by the rain with every step.  He gets home and Miss Patton (the secretary) is waiting on Pete's door step.  She tells him some sob story and our hero invites her up to dry off.

Miss Patton - who by now we know is somehow really Carl King - off handedly says she knows Peter is Spider-man, and Pete - frozen with surprise / fear - watches as miss Patton's hear turns a full 180 degrees.  Once again: Creepy.

Carl (or Miss Patton of The Thousand) and Spider-man fight on the roof top and Pete find out that Carl's been watching him for a while - like ever since the day he was bitten on the field trip.  Carl bites Spider-man, paralyzes him, and ties him to a chair.

Upon regaining consciousness, Spider-man finds out what exactly The Thousand is - a bunch of spiders inhabiting the skin of Miss Patton and with Carl's consciouses.  They pour out of Miss Patton's mouth and creep toward our bound hero.  One last time: Creepy.

This is a nice issue of Spider-man, a little trip into the more grotesque side of things.  The scene where the spiders come out of Miss Patton's mouth is bound to give me nightmares.  Once again, I have to say do not judge this issue by its cover.  I really like McCrea's pencils - they are both sparse and chilling.  I really can't do them justice.  Guess I'll have to start posting some interior art on my posts.   This is a solid story.

The Thousand wraps up in the next issue - and who knows, maybe we'll read more of the Web Head.  Until then - happy reading.

Credits: 

Written by - Garth Ennis
Art by - John McCrea and James Hodgkins

Spider-man's Tangled Web #1

After a couple of weeks with Grendel, I need a bit of a break.  So, enter our friendly neighborhood Spider-man to tangle with the villain called the Thousand.   


This issue opens with a man sitting in a diner, sulking.  He's obsessing over Spider-man, who is fighting the Rhino outside.  Spidey cracks some jokes, hits Rhino with an armored car, and generally saves the day.

But who is this man in the diner?  And how does he know that Spider-man is really Peter Parker.

Pete tries to do some laundry and fails.

In a flashback, our mystery man bets up on a young Peter Parker.

Pete tries to sell some pictures and fails.  Miss Patton (a feature's editor, I guess) takes Pete's picture and we cut to the evening.  The Bugle is empty - except for Miss Patton.  Our mystery man shows up and attacks Miss Patton.  The last page of the issue shows the mystery man's skin hanging in a closet like a wrinkled suit and Miss Patton strutting out of the building.

First, let me say one thing: do not judge this book by its hideous cover.  The interior art is head and shoulders above the cover.  It's got a clean feel to it, polished and refreshing.  The fight scene at the beginning with the Rhino is a joy to read.  I'm kind of a novice reader of Spider-man, but this is the beginning of a good 3 part story that is just that: a story - complete with a beginning, middle and end.  Tomorrow - the middle chapter of the Thousand.

Until then - happy reading.

Credits:  Written by - Garth Ennis
               Art by - John McCrea, James Hodgkins,
                            and Steve Buccellato

Grendel - Behold the Devil #8

So, in the last issue the demon stalking Grendel was vanquished and now the Devil can get back to work. 
  
This issue opens with Hunter Rose's assistant, Larry, fishing diary pages out of a fire and Lucas running through the streets babbling...he's now sure that Hunter is Grendel.  Lucas storms into his apartment and gathers all his papers when the door slams behind him.

Who could it be but...Grendel.  Lucas was sloppy and Grendel's been aware of him this whole time.  With a flick of his wrist, Grendel slits our reporter's throat.  My favorite line comes next... "always something flammable under the sink," and the apartment is up in flames.

Liz shows up as Grendel is on his way out and  gets off a couple shots.  All go wide except one, which Grendel ricochets off his fork into Liz's face.  The Devil runs off into the night.  Liz ends up dying a week later from her wounds.

Then comes the epilogue - that ties up one loose end from the Hunter Rose era.  We see the fate of Larry.  He ends up taking his own life when the cops come calling after Hunter dies.

A satisfying ending to a lost tale of the first man called Grendel.  The art was great, the story was fast paced.  In the end, like most Hunter Rose era Grendel tales, everyone ends up dead.

Well, I need a bit of a break from the epic story that is Grendel.  Be back here next time for who knows what.

Until then - happy reading.

Credits:  Written by Matt Wagner
               Art by Matt Wagner

Grendel - Behold the Devil #7

Last issue, Grendel summoned up the dire-imp that's been trailing him this entire series.  In this issue the Devil comes face to face with a demon.

The demon, trapped in a circle, spits out strings of profanity as Grendel stands by in (rarely seen) awe.  Grendel regains his composure and asks the demon a simple question: "Why?"

Grendel breaks the circle with his fork and the demon stings him (he's got a wicked looking scorpion tail) and we are treated to a stunning flash forward.  Hunter sees scenes of the future - Christine Spar, Brian Li Sung, Eppy Thatcher, Orion Assante, Grendel Prime, pretty much his whole legacy.

If those names don't mean anything to you, don't worry, we'll cover them later when we get through the Hunter Rose era.

Lucas and Liz screw - "like...going for broke."

So, Hunter has been shown his future - and he realizes he is not a spectacular outlier in the scope of humanity, he's actually a part of the norm.  He disregards that, his ego winning out, and goes about destroying the pages in his journal that chronicle this whole experience.

Now, this issue is a joy for anyone who has followed this character for the past 25 years.  I fell in love with Grendel when I was 15 and on a whim bought a copy of Grendel: Primer.  It introduced me to a world I found both mysterious and fascinating.  This book has that same feel.  If you've never read the Comico series, this issue will probably leave you scratching your head.  But, fear not, all your questions will be answered - just stay tuned.

One more issue to go - no more monkey on the Devil's back.  We'll wrap this series up next time.  Until then, happy reading.

Credit:  Written by - Matt Wagner
             Art by - Matt Wagner

Grendel - Behold the Devil #6

Grendel - now armed with relics to battle the other worldly presence that has been stalking him - sets his sights on the Koreans.  They tried to kill him in issue 4 and he's still pissed about it.

So, the Koreans realize that their bomb didn't do jack against Grendel, so they go into hiding.  The Korean boss surrounds himself with his bodyguards and hide out for a couple of days.

Grendel tracks them down and makes short work of all five of the armed men.  Awesome fight scene - large splash pages, lots of red against the stark black and white.  This is my favorite issue of the series - this fight scene is simply fantastic.

Liz and Lucas fight about keeping secrets and they part on bad terms.  Remember - Lucas knows that Grendel is Hunter Rose.

We get back the the Devil at work - he draws a circle with a cursed bone and tosses a potion into the circle and...behold the demon that has been following him this whole time.

Great issue - it shows how easily Grendel played the Koreans from the beginning.  This series is a great way to reintroduce the character after a 5 year hiatus.  It reads fast and and looks awesome.  2 more issues - lots of surprises.

Until next time - happy reading.

Credits: Written by - Matt Wagner
              Art by - Matt Wagner

Grendel - Behold the Devil #5

So, Grendel knows that something is following him - and it has 3 toes!  This issue opens with Grendel going underground where he encounters some zombies, who he easily dispatches.  Turns out these dead minions belong to a Santeria priest named Toro.  Grendel asks if he knows what is tailing him; Toro reveals it's a dire-imp.  It can be contained, Toro says, but for a price: 1 million dollars.

Lucas spies on Hunter; Liz talks to one of Grendel's lieutenants, who refuses to squeel.

Grendel knocks off a bank truck and gets Toro his money.  In exchange the Devil gains the tools needed to trap the dire-imp and get back to business as normal.

This was a fine issues - the zombie killing was pretty cool.  This issue sets the stage for the events to come - it's been up hill since about the third issue and the roller coaster is at the top of the hill.  The last three issues of this series are the real pay off. 

So, until tomorrow - happy reading

Grendel - Behold the Devil #4

So, last issue Grendel and Argent fought and Lucas figured out that Hunter Rose is Grendel.  Blood was spilled, money was lost and secrets were revealed.  And still, the Devil feels someone watching his every move.

This issue opens with Grendel and his import broker (insert drug smuggler) sitting down having a rational talk about the loss of the heroine shipment at the hands of Argent.  Well, the conversation is not so much rational as...say...at blade point. And with some threats to the broker's family thrown in for effect.  Long story short, the Devil want the Koreans to pay for his loss - in either money or blood.

On the other side of town, the only remaining witness to the dock side attack ends up dying in front of Liz after ground glass is placed in his food.  No more witness.  Lucas does more digging into Hunter Rose's past - and comes up with nothing.

The Koreans set up a drop for the money and Grendel heads to the appointed meeting place.  Upon entering the room, Grendel knows something isn't right and we are treated to our broker with a hole in his chest and a ticking briefcase.

Boom - Grendel, blown out of the window in the nick of time, goes back into the building to survey the scene and finds tiny three toed footprints in the blood.

Another great issue in a constantly awesome series.  All the players are being set up for an awesome fight next issue.  Kind of can't wait until tomorrow - until then, happy reading.

Credits: Writer - Matt Wagner
              Art - Matt Wagner

Grendel - Behold the Devil #3

Our tale of the Devil continues as he faces off against his life long enemy - Argent the wolf.  Grendel gets that funny feeling again, like he's being watched - when out of the shadows leaps the Wolf.  They fight on the roof tops, the Devil toying with Argent...all the while quoting Shelly, Blake and Dante.

Awesome fight scene - best of the series so far.

Our reporter friend Lucas witnesses the entire fight and the aftermath (Argent rips apart Grendel's men handling the heroine shipment) and, In fear heads to Liz's apartment where they discus who is the worse monster - the Devil or the Wolf.

We are then treated to a walk in the park with Hunter and Stacy - a rare contemplative moment.  But this time out leads the Devil to a decisive confrontation between himself and the Koreans (who were unable to protect his cargo).

The issue ends with Lucas finally connecting the dots and realizing Hunter Rose and Grendel are one in the same.

The book took me 7 minutes to read - I kid you not.  They move at almost breakneck speed...and I think I love the ride.  Matt's art is phenomenal - some of the most interesting panel layouts I've seen in while.  But his trademarks are still there too.

I have to keep saying this - if you've never read Grendel, this series is the perfect place to start.

Credits - Written by Matt Wagner
               Art by Matt Wagner

Grendel - Behold the Devil #2

Tonight's review is the next issue of Matt Wagner's latest black, white and red Hunter Rose mini-series Grendel - Behold the Devil.  It also happens to be my son's second birthday, so I will indulge in a breif post script about my life outside of the long box.

This issue opens with our titular character poised on a sky-light eaves dropping on two mob bosses; they are discussing the demise of their colleague from the previous issue.  All of a sudden, Grendel's hand squeaks on the glass and the men are tipped off to his presence.  Needless to say, Grendel makes short work of them in his signature surgical manner.  On the other side of things, Lucas (our reporter friend) and Liz (our cop friend) talk about how neither one of them has any idea who Grendel could be.

Hunter and Larry - Grendel's willing right hand man - talk about the power vacuum problem that has recently come about at Grendel's blade.  They agree to let it fill itself and Grendel calls a meeting on the leaders of his underworld.  We learn that later than night a large shipment of heroine is being brought into New York under the protection of the Koreans.  Many wonder whether they can be trusted, so Grendel says he'll see to it personally.  Lucas also finds out about the shipment and makes his way to the docks too.

At the close of the issue, we see Grendel sitting on a rooftop, feeling like he's being watched.  Little does he know, there is a wolf lurking over his shoulder.

This issue lacks the action of the previous one, but it is building with Argent (the wolf) coming to the table.  When Grendel or Argent are around the body count is high, but with both of them on the scene it goes off the charts.  The art is great - the action isn't present like the last issue, but Wagner handles the dramatic scenes well too.  He's a wonderful story teller and the tension that's building is sure to break in the next issue.

On a side note - today was a great day.  It was my son Finn's second birthday.  I got home from work at 4:30 and asked Finn what he wanted for dinner.  He practically screamed "Pizza", so I drove to Domino's to fetch dinner.  After the feast (he was covered in sauce) we sat on the floor and played with his new wooden train set.  All of a sudden he stood up, ran to the DVD rack and pointed to the Spectacular Spider-man DVD.  We sat and watched the Doctor Octopus episode and he asked for Batman instead.  We watched the Joker Fish episode and the Harley and Ivy one.  Then it was off to bed.  I am so proud of that young man - he's so cool.

So, until tomorrow - happy reading!

Grendel - Behold the Devil #1

Last issue saw Grendel chase down a thug, who he proceeded to kill - but not before allowing the man a glance at his face under the mask.  He then complained about a feeling of being watched.

The devil is back to this old tricks in this issue, which opens with 4 pages of blood splatter and captions detailing a battle between Grendel and 21 armed men.  The aftermath fills a double page spread and is a gory joy to behold (I like the guy stuffed in the umbrella stand).

We are then introduced to Lucas Ottoman (reporting tracking Grendel) and Elizabeth Sparks (a police officer also tracking Grendel); they meet at the scene of the carnage and exchange witty banter - next scene we see them post coitus talking about the murder scene.

Grendel is then seen on a roof top contemplating the vacuum left in his criminal underworld by the murders, when that felling of being watched comes back and the issue ends.

Not bad for a first issue - it's good to see Matt Wagner draw Grendel again.  It's kind of a standard first issue in that it introduces new character, gives background on established charters, and sets up a mystery to be solved.  The cover blew me away the first time I saw it and the murder scene is probably one of my favorite pieces of comic art.  All that blood and not a drop on him. 

Awesome issue - go buy it.

More blood tomorrow as the Devil's exploits continue.  Until then - happy reading.

Grendel - Behold the Devil #0

In 2007, I turned 25...and so did Matt Wagner's character, Grendel.  So to celebrate, Matt decided to return once more to the original Grendel - Hunter Rose.  Why I keep saying the "original Grendel" will be explored in later posts, but for now, lets talk about Hunter Rose.

Like Grendel: Black, White and Red and Grendel: Red, White and Black this series is published in black white and red.  Unlike the previous anthology format of those two title, Behold the Devil is one 9 issue story and is drawn by one person - Matt Wagner.

This issue is a teaser.  Grendel chases a man for unknown reasons to a "safe house", which the man makes his final resting place.  Before administering the killing blow, Grendel lets the man see who lives under the mask.  Cut to Christine Spar sitting at her desk talking about some missing pages in Grendel's diary.  Just as a refresher, Christine is Hunter's granddaughter (for more on this check out my review of Devil by the Deed).

This issue is well drawn and well told.  After Devil's Vagary yesterday, this book is fresh reminder of why I enjoy Matt Wagner's writing.  And his art is great - I like the way his style has developed since Devil By the Deed.  He's realized he's better at showing the aftermath of violence rather than the violence itself.  I've always felt his action scenes feel flat.  That statement aside, this is an all around good read and a great jumping on point for new readers who may never have read this character.

Until tomorrow - Happy reading

Credits - Written by: Matt Wagner
               Art by: Matt Wagner

Grendel - Devil's Vagary #0

Well, after the brief Batman intermission, I think it's time to get back the character that I started this blog with - Grendel.  More accurately, the original Grendel, Hunter Rose. 

My love affair with this character began when I was a freshman in high school.   At the time, I had an unhealthy addiction to everything X and Magic: The Gathering.  I was at my local comic shop (R.I.P. Oscar's Comics) and on a whim picked up a copy of the Grendel Primer.  From that moment on I knew I was destined to collect every issue of this series.  This is the last one I tracked down. 

It's a strange little one shot issue that tells the story of a man who tries to play the Devil for a fool and ends up paying the price.  It involves a botched arms trade and a kidnapped woman.

This is probably the weakest Grendel story I've read.  It's only 16 pages - but the art is decent.  Lots of play between light and shadow.  But the story is a little weak. 

Be back here tomorrow for the beginning of the most recent tale of the original devil.  Until then, Happy reading!

Credits - Matt Wagner: Writer
               Dean Motter: Art

Batman #454

Written by: Peter Milligan
Art by: Kieron Dwyer and Dennis Janke

So, we last saw Batman holding a choking child and a silver dagger.  No other option but to perform a tracheotomy.  In true Batman style, the baby lives and Batman tracks the Riddler to a fun house, where our hero fights a guy with a flame thrower in front of the last baby and a goat.  Batman saves the last baby, and takes off after the Riddler.  He ends up in a warehouse, that has a basement with a skeleton in it - the same basement where a demon was summoned.

Turns out, the demon was using the Riddler to prep Batman as a new sacrifice.  Cool plot twist.  Riddler locks Bats in the basement and lights the place on fire.  After a long dialog between Batman and the skeleton of the girl, Alfred shows up and saves the day.  Batman buries the girl in the Wayne plot and wonders how much of his destiny the Demon controlled.

This is a perfect ending - this demon created its own savior.  The demon runs through Gotham - is in every street, brick and stop light - and has been shaping the city since the 1700's.

I can't sum up how good this story is - go out and read it.  It hasn't been collected in a trade, but the single issues shouldn't run you more than $3 an issue.

Well, happy Thanksgiving and happy reading. 

Batman #453

Written by: Peter Milligan
Art by: Kieron Dwyer and Dennis Jenke


So we last left Batman in a cemetery full zombies and the Riddler still had three babies held hostage. Bats fights the zombies and realizes all but one are robots. Before Batman can interogate the thug, the Riddler sets off a tiny bomb embedded in his henchman's neck. No more henchman.

The Riddler doesn't normally act like this (his death toll is usually low) and Batman knows it too. He knows the Riddler is just playing with him. In the cemetary, our hero finds the second baby alive and a riddle...

...Back in 1764, a botched sacrifice occurs in what would be modern day Gotham....

... Our hero figures out the riddle, which leads him under the streets of Gotham where the Riddler has endangered another life. He's stuck a pin-pong ball down one of the babies' throats and it's up to Batman to perform emergency surgery to save a life. And the issue ends.

Again, this story never misses a step. The timing is right on, the art is simple and refreshing, and the story is full of twists. I'd recommend these issues to anyone.

Come back tomorrow and find how steady Batman's hand is and why the Riddler is acting so weird . Until then, happy reading.

Batman # 452

Written by: Peter Milligan
Art by: Kieron Dwyer and Dennis Janke

So I need something a bit more entertaining to cleanse my palette after that last issue of Mutant X. So, after about 15 minutes of digging, I came across the Dark City Dark Knight 3 parter by Peter Milligan.

This first issue is insane. I can't explain the plot in a short manner. All I can say is the Riddler shots a security guard in cold blood, hangs a man, kidnaps babies (one of which Batman almost runs over), covers Batman in gallons of blood and the issue ends with Batman in a graveyard with zombies. All that and there's a side story about a demon and a human sacrifice!

Wow, talk about a tense issue. Batman fails to save 3 out of 4 victims. Not a good day for the Caped Crusader.

The art keeps up with the manic story - not a single panel is wasted. The scene where the security guard is killed is particular good. For a book from 1990, the art still holds up. It's refreshing to see comic book art in a comic book. No painted panels, no washes, no effects. Just paper and ink. Great issue - a must read if you like the Dark Knight.

Mutant X #12

Written by: Howard Mackie
Art by: Cary Nord and Andrew Pepoy

Well, its finally here - the showdown between the Goblin Queen and Havok. I went into this expecting good things...but this is the Mutant X universe where nothing in what you expected.

Basically this issue consists of gathering of the forces of good to fight the Goblin Queen. Lots of self doubt on Havok's part, as usual. He makes it to New York to face the Goblin Queen and... he remembers dying. Turns out we're transported into his mind (or maybe the astral plain) where Scotty is hanging out. There is a lot of dialogue and the Goblin Queen is defeated in a tiny panel. Havok wonders how and the rest of the world starts to pick up the pieces of the Goblin Queen's mess.

What a piece of crap ending. No grand 12 page fight scene, no death of heroes and villains alike, just a big stinking fart of a deus ex machina. What a waste of time and paper. Trees died to print this drivel.

Well, I think we'll shelve this series for a bit (there are 20 more issues plus 2 annuals) - be back here tomorrow to find out what the long box holds.

Read happy!

Mutant X #11

So, it's been a while since I posted here. Best to get right back on that horse...

Written by: Howard Mackie
Art by: JJ Kirby, Mike Miller, and Andrew Pepoy

Wow. Let me just say that this series was kind of a nail in the coffin of my 2010 run of comic reviews. But I'm back with renewed vigor. Still, this series is threating my new found strength. It's kind of like a train wreck... I want to look away, but realize I can't.

If I had any real followers out there, I'm sorry for the delay in posting. Hopefully I'll get back into the swing of things.

So, this issues opens with a meeting of the X-Men and Havok to discuss what should be done with the Goblin queen. Scotty sits at the top of the stairs at the X-Mansion and listens as the super powered adults decide his mother soon to be fate. Cut to Maddie talking to her Goblin Queen reflection in a pond, who tells Maddie it's time to get Scotty back. Bloodstorm shows up at the X-Mansion, fights the X-Men, wins and takes Scotty back to the Six's HQ.

After a less than warm reunion with his mother, Scotty is sent to bed without dinner. Brute goes to see Scotty, who "talks" him out of the Queen's control. The two of them proceed to try and escape, only to be hampered by the Fallen. Brute and the Fallen fight, brute loses and the Fallen winds up the killing blow. Scotty's eye glow and the room bursts with blue energy which send the Fallen flying against a wall. Enraged, the Fallen tried to strike Scotty, but Mommy steps in and reminds the Fallen who is the boss.

Mattie seems to return to her senses and tells the Brute to take Scotty back to the X-Men and all is back to where it was at the beginning of this issue.

I like Kirby's (or possibly Miller's) Maddie - and as is par for this book, the art is stylized in a decent way that isn't terrible to look at. The story is about in line too. Not a terrible read, but definitely not the best book I've got it the long boxes.

Mutant X #10

Written by: Howard Mackie

Art by: Cary Nord and Andrew Pepoy

So, Magneto showed up at the end of last issue and surveys the scene - Maddie and friends on one side, Havok and his pals on the other. He then messes up the Sentinels (on the Goblin Queen's side, in case you're keeping score) and her Majesty and friends high tail it out of there.

Magneto and Polaris try to take Alex to the mansion when an explosion occurs behind them. The turn and go into the city. They are hounded by Sentinels and eventually find themselves face to face with Maddie and her newest convert - Nimrod

So by now, everyone has pissed their pants - but who else should come to this party but the rest of the X-Men: Nightcrawler, Rogue, Quicksilver and Mystique. So both sides again are set to rumble at the close of this issue.

Not a horrible read, some good action scenes and banter between Magneto and Polaris. The art is the same as it has been on this series. Maddie looks good, everyone has beards. Not the worst issue of this series.

Mutant X #9

Written by: Howard Mackie

Art by: Mike Miller and Andrew Pepoy

Havok returns to New York City after his adventure in the swamp to find in completely in his wife's (the Goblin Queen) clutches. Some Sentinels show up, corner Alex in an alley and the ground breaks open and swallows Alex.

Turns out it is the underground freedom fighters led by Ben Grimm, the Mole Man and Calypso; they live in the tunnels under New York. They show Alex around and he says " I need to find my wife." They take him up a tunnel where who should be waiting but the Goblin Queen and the rest of her goons. They trade blows until who should show up but...Magneto.

What a steaming pile of junk. Nothing happened in this issue. Havok when on a tour of the tunnels - I could have gone to Crystal Caverns and done the same thing. Yawns all around. This is just an awful title. I can't really remember if I enjoyed it the first tie I read it, but I kind of can't stand it right now.

Mutant X '99 Annual

Written by: Jay Faeber

Art by: Paschalis Ferry and Andrew Pepoy

Ever wonder how the Defenders formed in the crazy world that is Mutant X's everyday? Yeah, neither did I. But Jay Faeber sure does want to tell us and I'm just masochistic enough to want to read it.

So, Alex got cold cocked through a plate glass window (not a cool as I make it sound) by Maddie at the end of last issue sending him falling to his supposed death. Well he's saved at the last minute by the remaining Avengers - a female Yellowjacket and some dude named Stingray. They call in Doc Samson to help over throw the Goblin Queen.

Fury and Maddie show up in some swamp, Alex follows them, The fight Dr. Strange and lose. Strange teleports our heroes away and destroys the nexus of reality (which Maddie was trying to control and Dr. Strange was trying to protect) and ends up absorbing it into himself. Stingray, Yellowjacket and Doc Samson decide to team up as the - you guessed it - Defenders.

Oh, and Reed Richards (who turned on our heroes a issue or two ago) is now President.

Compared to the previous issues in this series, there is some action, some psyco babble, and this story actually moves the overarching story forward. In short, this issue has a beginning, a middle and an end - something mister Mackie seems to have a problem with. The art is standard 90's fare, not terrible to look at but nothing to write home about. One of the better issues this stinker of a series has turned out.

Can't wait until I hit issue 12 - I'll start Promethea or Behold the Devil to wash the foul taste out of my mouth left from reading this series.

Mutant X #8

Written by: Howard Mackie

Art by: Cary Nord and Andrew Pepoy

Wow, another issue where absolutely nothing happens. Maddie and friends take over the White House and the Sentinels, Alex and Electra take Scotty to the X-Mansion, Alex leaves for New York City to confront Maddie. They argue and she kicks him out a window.

Reading this series is like watching a train wreck in slow motion. It's building to something that will probably be just as big of a let down as this series has been so far.

Again, in my defense, this series felt cool and new when I first read it. I guess my tastes have changed. Learn from me; stay away from this title. No good can come of it.

The art is pretty though...

Mutant X #7

Written by: Howard Mackie

Art by: Cary Nord and Andrew Pepoy

So, this series is still kind of a stinker. Believe me, I'm trying to find some redeeming value in it, but I just can't. This issue focuses on the Goblin Queen gathering the Six around her so she can carry out her goblin invasion.

Havok, Elektra, and Scotty are on the run, the Brute has been executed and Bloodstorm is under the Goblin Queen's control.

There is a cross country road chase involving Havok and friends and some workers at the local drive in who are controlled by the Goblin Queen. The (newly resurrected) Brute shows up and tries to take Scotty. Alex won't let him and the Brute warns him that Maddie will be pissed.

There really aren't many good things to say about this issue. Simple filler that could have been done in 2-3 pages but is stretched out over a whole issue. I'm really getting tired of this series. When it came out, it felt fresh; but now it has gone flat.

Mutant X #6

Written by: Howard Mackie

Art by: Cary Nord and Andrew Pepoy

The Brute stands trial for the death of Norman Osborn and Spider-man in the latest issue of this series (I swear it gets better). This is an issue where the story really starts to take off. We see Havok stand in the Brute's defense, and a surprise witness shows up - Spider-man!

Turns out the version that the Brute killed was just a clone.

Bullseye and the Hand show up too, as everyone is pissed off at the mutants for the destruction that occurred in New York City. Maddie and the Fallen continue to berate the Brute and Maddie does something weird that allows the Brute to be smart again...and he wants to be tried to the fullest extent of the law.

Cary Nord is what makes this series good. His art is like nothing I've ever seen. I love to hate some panels, others I just love. His Goblin Queen is haunting. The stage is being set for some cool things down the road. After some miss steps in the earlier issues, this one marks an upswing in artistic and narrative style. I'm actually starting to care about these characters. Good stuff.

Mutant X #5

Written by: Howard Mackie

Art by: Tom Raney and Andrew Pepoy

The world of Mutant X get over run by (cloned) Goblins and everyone's favorite neighborhood Spider-man shows up to help the Six. There is a big fight scene, the Six split up and Madelyne goes off with the Fallen after the Green Goblin, who is in control of the clones. Spider-man (who has six arms, weird right?) follows, and is captured along with Gobby. The Brute shows up just in time to hear Madelyne tell the Fallen to kill them.

He does and Havok and friends show up and blame the Brute. He's dumb and can't defend himself - so he runs off. Havok trails him and the cops take the brute down and arrest him for the murder of the Goblin and Spider-man.

Not really sure why I'm still reading this title. The story is kind of lack luster and I remember it being a abetter read. Maybe my tastes have changed. Before this was like a nice pice of guilty candy. But now I think I have a cavity from it. I'll stick with it until the faux Inferno story line finishes up, then I'll reevaluate whether this warrants further reading.

Mutant X #4

Written by: Howard Mackie

Art by: Cary Nord and Andrew Pepoy

After our brief visit to Canada last issue, the Six return to their castle home for some much needed R & R. But things start getting funky as Madelyne decends a secret stair case and the power goes out...

So the power is out, Bloodstorm is off feeding on her friends (Kitty Pryde and Forge) and a creeping mist fills the halls of Bannerman Castle. Alex goes off looking for Scotty and finds him in his room; He tells Alex bad things are coming. They run through the mist and are attacked by some goblins. One tries to kill Scotty and Madelyne (as the Goblin Queen) shows up; she takes out the goblin with one touch. She reverts back to her normal self, Alex is left slack jawed, and asks Scotty to give her a hug.

Now, I understand that this is laying the ground work for the coming story line - but I mean come on, the cover gives away the ending. The art is getting better - I really dig the first couple pages. I started collecting this series at the beginning of my second real collecting phase (which I am still in) and I consider it to be the title that spurred me on to collecting what I now own.

This issue's merits, as a single issue, are sparse - but as a bridge between a string of crappy issues and the beginning of the first real story arc it's okay.

Well, until tomorrow - happy reading.

Mutant X #3

Written by: Howard Mackie

Art by: Tom Raney and Andrew Pepoy

The parade of weird versions of characters I know continues in this flaming piece of junk. And who else gets paraded out but every ones over rated mutant bad boy, Wolverine. I went through a phase where I was into this character - somewhere between 9th and 10th grade. As I aged, I found I liked my superheroes a little less beserker and a bit more cerebral.

This issue opens with Havok wondering the snowy wilderness mumbling about how some has "taken them all"... and this issue get worse from here. Turns out we are at war with Canada (which is the only novel idea in this book) and the Six get shot down in Canadian airspace. But, honestly Howard Mackie - war with Canada? This new world is so crazy.

Blurry images run across the page, the Brute goes crazy and the Pack shows up - Wildchild, Sabertooth and Wolverine. Havok blasts them and this revels a cave entrance. Havok blows the door out and reveals...you guessed it - the Weapon X facility. Alpha Flight shows up, tells off the Six (something like "Stay out of Canada, jerks) and the Six go on their way.

What a waste of a couple trees. The art is in line with Pepoy's standard fare - nothing new here. The story is cookie cutter at best. If memory serves me correctly, this series gets better down the road. Stick with it, there are a couple memorable issues in this series. Until tomorrow - happy reading.

Mutant X #2

Written by: Howard Mackie

Art by: Tom Raney and Andrew Pepoy

Havok continues to adjust to this world he now calls home in the second issue of Mutant X. In case you're unaware of the plot, Havok's soul has been transplanted to another reality where things are a bit off kilter. Mutants and humans are friends, Magneto leads the X-men, Scott Summers didn't survive the plane crash.

So, in this issue, the Six show up to help the Fantastic Four battle an inter-dimensional threat in the form of the insect-like being called Moot. Apparent;y, in this reality, the Fantastic Four get their powers from battle armor as opposed to cosmic radiation and Havok and Sue had a brief affair. So, Reed and Alex aren't really on speaking terms. So, the Six and the Four beat Moot and Reed takes him back to the Baxter Building.

Alex realizes that if anyone can help him get back to his reality, it's Reed Richards. So, he heads over to the Baxter Building and is greeted by a very friendly Reed. Turns out Moot is controlling Reed to get to Havok to initiate a cross dimensional invasion. Alex frees Sue, Ben, and Jonny and they kick the tar out of Moot. The real Reed runs some tests on Alex and find some sort of brain damage.

Wow - what a mediocre issue. Boring, ding. The art is your standard fair for the late 90's and the story is bland. Again, this series is beginning to feel like a parade of "this is someone you know, but they are different here" characters. I have read the whole series before, and it does have its merits, but this issue is not one of them.

Well, I kind of feel like that was a waste of time. Oh, well. I still liked it. Come on, junk food is always just that - junk. Until tomorrow - happy reading.

Mutant X #1

Written by: Howard Mackie

Art by: Tom Raney and Andrew Pepoy

Let me start this review by saying a few things about my comic book buying habits. Here are some things I look for in a title from either Marvel or DC:

1) Does the title have a beginning, middle, and ending?

2)Did one person write from issue one to the final issue?

3) Do I need to read any other series to understand what is going on in this title?

4) Is the title set in a alternate reality (non Earth 1 or Earth 616, depending)?

5) Can I make a check list?

So according to this set of rigorous tests Mutant X is a perfect title for me to collect. It's set in an alternate reality - if fact it is the only title to take place in this alternate reality. It consists of 32 issues and 3 annuals, all written by Howard Mackie. When I was collecting this series, I had a checklist (I like checklist more than any sane person should - I keep a spreadsheet of my comics with a pie graph showing publisher distribution). It has a beginning, middle and end. One thing to note about possible flaws in the test - there is no gauge for quality, either in art or story.

So, on to Mutant X #1. It opes with Havok (Alex Summers) falling through a starry background, talking about remembering dying. We then cut to a fight scene between a group called the Six (consisting of Havok, Madelyn Pryor, the Brute, Iceman, the Fallen, and Bloodstorm) and some Sentinels. They fight, the Six gets the upper hand, and one of the Sentinels tries to blow away Madelyn; Havok jumps in the way and takes the blast - this sends him into a river where the two Havoks merge.

Havok awakes, see these twisted versions of his friends and freaks out. The Fallen clock him and we cut to the Six's hideout. A long, drawn out section takes place explaining all the characters. Havok and Madelyn are married and have a son, Scotty. The Brute is Hank McCoy - but a dull witted, reptilian version, as his experiments took another direction on this world. The Fallen is Warren Worthington III, but instead of metal wings, his are now bat-like and he breaths fire. Iceman can't turn off his ice. Bloodstorm is Ororo Munroe who never got over Dracula's bite. Long story short, Havok decides to run with this to see who is behind the tinkering of reality.

We learn that in this world the Six are heroes and mutants and humans live in peace. Nick Fury and SHEILD are fighters for humanity - and have taken Havok and Madelyn's kid hostage at the Statue of Liberty. The team takes off and fight Fury and friends. Madelyn mentions the Goblin Queen (SPOILER) and the team is able to save Scotty. The book ends with Scotty confronting Havok - saying "You're not my real father."

Wow. What an issue; packed with information and very little plot, which is a bit generic, but the characters are the real focal point. Like a fun house mirror. The art is standard fare for marvel in the late 90's - nothing ground breaking, lots of odd poses.

The whole reason I picked up this series is Havok. I hate Cyclops with a passion and a solo book about his underachieving brother is perfect for me. And Scott Summer is dead in this reality. Awesome.

This is a book that appeals to my sweet tooth and I am kind o ashamed to say I love this title. More reviews to come. Until tomorrow - happy reading.

Sandman Mystery Theatre #4

Written by: Matt Wagner

Art by: Guy Davis

The trail that leads to the Tarantula's web gets shorter and shorter; but how many bodies will the Sandman find there?

This issue is the last in this story arc and wraps up the tale quite nicely. Clues lead Wesley to the Goldman residence where he finds Catherine and Celia chained up and at death's door. A veiled figure shows up (who has been making periodic appearances through this arc) and the two fight. The Sandman gases her and she goes down. This turns out to be Al Goldman's wife.

The Tarantula shows up, black hood and all, and our titular hero and his first rival clash. No one really gets an upper hand and the Tarantula is eventually electrocuted by a stray wire. He turns out to be Al Goldman's son, Roger.

Both Celia and Catherine survive their ordeal and the plot is summed up over dinner. Roger was pissed about being written out of the will, the wife was pissed about Al's mistress (Catherine) so they teamed up to try to squeeze daddy for money. Families are fun, aren't they?

Well, that wraps up this issue. Guy Davis has developed a visual style that remains both stunning and haunting on this title - like nothing I've ever seen before. And Matt Wagner can write one hell of a mystery.

Until tomorrow - happy reading.

Sandman Mystery Theatre #3

Written by: Matt Moore

Art by: Guy Davis

Terror still stalks the streets as the Tarantula's kidnapping spree continues.

This issue opens with Detective Burke investigating an abandoned warehouse - and who should turn up but the Sandman. They fight; Burke gets gassed and Wesley takes a shot to the head. Back at the Dodd's residence, Dian comes calling in the dead of the night. She and Wes talk - a joke is made and she leave.

Cut to more torture scenes (the art is awesomely gruesome).

Wes finds out the accountant who hid assets for the out of business milk company and interrogates him. He find out that the current owner is the son of none other that known bootlegger and all around not-so-nice guy, Al Goldman. Burke shows up too late - throws down his hat - everyone laughs.

The story then moves into the Goldman house where we see that Al and his daughter, Celia, are more than just father and daughter.

The issue closes with Celia being kidnapped by the Tarantula.

This is another fine chapter in this series. I was thinking on the drive home today about what it was that drew me to this series in the first place. I know right off the bat it had something to o with Matt Wagner. I love his story telling . It's always so tight. This series, so far, has been plotted a lot like a Raymond Chandler novel. Good stuff. Guy Davies continues to add his very distinct style to this title. It feels scratchy, like old film.

Busy at home, sorry I missed a couple days. Wedding bells and all. Well, until next time - happy reading.

Sandman Mystery Theatre #2

Written by: Matt Wagner

Art by: Guy Davis

It's 1938 and a Tarantula still stalks the streets of New York City.

Last issue ended with Dian walking in on our titular hero in the ladies room (he was listening to a conversation between the police chief and the district attorney) - the Sandman spins her around and jumps out the window. Startled, Dian emerges in time to hear her father say that they recovered a body, a victim of the Tarantula. Dian volunteers to ID the body and we cut to the morgue - turns out this isn't her friend Catherine.

Insert torture scene - and Wesley just happens to be outside of the police station to offer Dian a ride home. Cut to scene with Al Goldman (known bootlegger) and his daughter; she says to daddy "You know I only have eyes for you" while rubbing on him. Something isn't right at the Goldman house.

Lt. Burke is looking to question Catherine's cab driver, but on the way up to his apartment Burke notices something outside the window. He opens said window and in pours a cloud of green smoke. Nighty night. The Sandman proceeds to question the cabbie. Burke wakes to find the cabbie passed out.

Dian and Wesley have dinner. Burke finds out that a delivery truck at the kidnap scene belongs to a company that has been out of business for 5 years, meanwhile another woman is kidnapped. The issue ends with some more torture of Catherine.

I enjoyed this issue. Not a lot of action, but the mystery is shaping up. This is one of the more cerebral titles I've read - it keeps the mind sharp. Matt is a very good mystery writer. Guy's art fits perfectly. Has a very real quality to it, like an old photograph pulled from a box in your grandfather's attic.

Lots of questions still to be answered in the first story arc of this title. I know there is a trade out there - so go buy it. Until tomorrow - happy reading.

Sandman Mystery Theatre #1

Written by: Matt Wagner

Art by: Guy Davis

Imagine, if you will, it's 1938 in New York - prohibition was lifted 5 years ago, jazz clubs are everywhere, Action Comics #1 just came out - and a man calling himself the Tarantula is kidnapping young girls. Who will save the city with a blend of wit, sleeping gas and...origami? That's right, the Sandman will.

In this first issue of Sandman Mystery Theatre, the key players in the drama are introduced: Wesley Dodds (a rich, aloof spectacle-wearing introvert), Lawrence Belmont (district attorney) and Dian Belmont (well-off socialite daughter of Lawrence). The issue begins with Dian and her friend Catherine having drinks at a club in Harlem; they stay out all night and share a cab home. What Dian doesn't know is that her father had a rather strange visitor that same night - the Sandman.

Dian and Lawrence head to a library fund raiser and meet up with Wesley, who is newly returned to New york after the death of his father. Dian is intrigued with Wesley's non-interest in her. Before they really have a chance to talk, Lawrence tells Dian they need to leave -Catherine has been kidnapped.

Insert scene of impaled girl on fire escape and...

...Wesley heads home, cuts to scenes of a tucked in doll, weird science experiments and then to the police station. Here, Dian waits for her father and any word on her friend Catherine. Some clumsy cop spills coffee on her and she heads to the lady's room where she comes face to face with the Sandman.

To be continued...

I really like this series. Matt Wagner is a great writer; he knows how to build the suspense. That's where the charm of this series comes form. There and Guy Davis's artwork - it's kind of inked sketches. Not polished at all, no huge muscles or big boobs - just realistic people and realistic gore. This is a horror / mystery book dressed as a superhero book; all together a nice blend of the genres.

The first half of this series is really easy to find - it gets a but tougher past issue 36 (that's where my collection ends...for now). More on this series as the days go by. Until tomorrow - happy reading.

Tom Strong #12

Written by: Alan Moore

Art by: Chris Sprouse

So, the end of last issue found Tom Strong and Tom 'Doc' Strange orbiting Terra Obscura. They gawk, open jawed, at an alien monstrosity boring into the surface of the planet. What do the two strongest and smartest men in the ABC universe do?

They call in reinforcements.

'Doc' leases the hypersaucer to save his fellow S.M.A.S.H members get out of the time loop orbit they've stuck in and Tom brings everyone up to speed. The heroes have been in stasis for 30 years and have no clue what is going on. One of their own, the Terror, fell in combat against the alien and Tom has the tough job of letting the Terror's side-kick know about his mentor's death. Here we learn of the Terror's final project: a digitized version of himself contained in hard light projectors.

With a newly revived Terror in tow, S.M.A.S.H heads toward the South Pole to take on the alien. The Terror is able to enter the alien's brain and drive him into the sun.

This is a satisfying ending to a nice story - a bit heavy handed on the secondary characters, but it does give a feel that there is more to come from the world of Terra Obscura. Chris's art is perfect, as usual. Though Tom and 'Doc' look very similar, there isn't a panel where I couldn't tell them apart. And the reappearance of the Terror is one of the best panels on the series.

I think this is a good stopping point for Tom Strong - we'll revisit him again. Who knows what I'll feel like reading tomorrow. Until I decide - happy reading.

Tom Strong #11

Written by: Alan Moore

Art by: Chris Sprouse

After a couple of anthology issues, Tom Strong is back with an issue (or 2) long story about a distant planet that resembles our own - but things there aren't quite the way they should be.

The issue opens with a meteor crash; Tom is on the scene and quickly finds out it's no meteor that crash in the center of Millennium City - it's Tom Strange (Terra Obscura's version of Tom Strong). Tom Strange, or Doc as he likes to be called, ran across the entire Milky Way to reach Earth and Tom Strong because his home is in danger. Apparently, a meteor hit Terra Obscura in its formative years that housed a giant alien being. It attacked Terra Obcura and S.M.A.S.H ( the Society of Major American Science Heroes) was defeated. Doc escaped and ran for 30 years to get help.

Tom and Doc suit up the Hypersaucer and head for Terra Obscura; along the way Tom talks about "ghost particles" and Golden Age comics. They finally reach Doc's world and find the fallen Science Heroes trapped in orbit and the invader mining away at the South Pole.

To be continued...

Now this is a comic book adventure. Alan Moore asks the reader to let him take the reigns and is treated to one heck of a ride. No guns, no anti-heroes, no multi-part, dollar sucking crossovers. Just science fiction pulp at its best. Chris's art is stunning as always. This issue and the one that follows put Tom Strong on my list of all time favorite comic series. This story is like fresh squeezed orange juice - pulpy and refreshing.

Go buy it - until tomorrow, happy reading.

Tom Strong #10

Written by: Alan Moore

Art by: see below

Three more short adventures in Millennium City with Tom Strong.

Tom Strong and his Phantom Autogyro - Gary Gianni

Tom ventures into the realm of the dead to learn a bit more about his parents - but the past is often better left dead. A good little tale that sheds a bit more light on the relationship between Tom's mother and Father. Gianni's art is wonderfully spectral; his ghosts seem like they are made from ether on the page. Nice little tale that is a nod to the hero's journey in general.

Funnyland! - Chris Sprouse

Tom invents a searchboard that allows him to jump between parallel universes; he ends up in a forest full of talking animals. There Tom is confronted by Warren Strong - a anthropomorphous rabbit version of himself. Together they save Patience ( a rabbit version of Dhula) from the evil clutches of the fox faced Basil Saveen.

This was a particularly enjoyable story - Chris's art was a nice change in style (fuzzy animals and all) and the script was full of comedy. Good read.

Too Many Teslas? - Chris Sprouse

Tesla steals her Dad's searchboard and opens up a portal to an alternate reality; what come through the portal is the real surprise. A nice romp through alternate realities (or should I say genres) and a variety of nice reimaginings of both Tesla and Tom. I liked the nods to Crisis type Earth naming. Another fine story from the Moore & Sprouse camp.

This has probably been my favorite issue so far. But tomorrow is another day - Happy reading.

Tom Strong #9

Written by: Alan Moore

Art by: see below

The anthology format continues in this issue featuring Millennium City's favorite science-hero, Tom Strong.

Terror Temple of Tayasal - Paul Chadwick

On his way to Attabar Teru, Tom is sidetracked by a group of archaeologists in South America. They seem to have stumbled upon a rather large carapace that's really old. Tom takes off into the jungle looking for clues and stumbles upon an ancient temple and its lone inhabitant - a piece of a biological spacecraft.

This is a nice story - good twist in the plot, nice characterization. Paul Chadwick's art is probably the best take on Tom Strong I've seen from an artist other than Chris Sprouse. Good stuff.

Volcano Dreams - Chris Sprouse

This is a tale of Dhula and her vision quest. It's okay - but it feels unnecessary. Nice ending. Chris's art is on par with everything I've seen from him on this title. The whole story seems almost too formulaic.

Flip Additude - Chris Sprouse

Tesla and Solomon fight a girl who can shift the center of gravity, making the world tip over on its side. Tesla find out the girl is the daughter of a former foe of Tom's and they fight. Solomon points out how the boots that tip the world are a physical impossibility, and Tesla retorts with "They're magic boots." Laughs the whole story through. Chris, again, is almost flawless on his execution here. Well written, well drawn.

All around good issue; kind of wish this series had more single story issues. But what can I do about it. Until tomorrow - happy reading.

Tom Strong #8

Written by: Alan Moore

Art by: see below

This is first issue of Tom Ttrong in an anthology format - it tells 3 different stories.

Rides of the Lost Mesa - Alan Weiss

Tom and Solomon ride into a desert town set on top of a mesa; the inhabitants have 3 eyes, herd squid like creatures, and think it's the year 1850. Tom Strong shows up to put an end to this. I like the blend of western and sci-fi elements in this story. All around, it's a good read - Alan Weiss' art is a little to muscular for me. I prefer Sprouse's angular bulk to the defined muscular look Alan Weiss give him.

The Old Skool - Chris Sprouse

I hate this story. It centers on the Strongmen of America and I find it to be hard to read and pointless in general. I understand what Alan Moore is trying to do with these characters - add a sense of Golden Age innocence, but it just comes off as forced. The art is very nice, especially the giant robots.

Sparks - Chris Sprouse

This is a solo Tesla story - it's okay. She goes into an active volcano in her gem suit (think clear suit of armor) to see what is causing all the shaking. There she encounter 3 fire men spirit things who attack her. Their boss shows up and chases them off and plants a kiss on Tesla's cheek. A bit sappy, but Valentine's Day is right around the corner. The art is very well done - but the story is mediocre.

All in all this isn't a bad issue, just not up to par with the ones that came before it in this series.

Tom Strong #7

Written by: Alan Moore

Art by: Chris Sprouse and Gary Frank

At the end of last issue, we were introduced to Tom and Ingrid's son, Albrecht. Ingrid stole some of Tom's genetic material during their first meeting and had Albrecht, who she raised as a Nazi.

Now, Tom and Albrecht are introduced; Tom tells Albrecht there is a better way of thinking and Albrecht punches him in the face. They scrap and Tom decides to try another route. The look into the Time Viewer...

... and the year is 2050; Tom is in stasis recovery and Albrecht shows up to menace Millennium City. Tesla, Tom's daughter, goes out to take care of her half-brother. They fight and the match is a draw until Tom shows up- and he's pissed. Tom and Albrecht fight and the Strongmen of America come to Tom's aid. Something is said about Saveen being dead for 80 years and Tom takes Albrecht back to the Stronghold to be rehabilitated...

... and in the present it's revealed that Saveen is really dead and the man in front of Tom is Denby Jilks, master of disguise! Ingrid gets pissed, takes her son and is about to leave when who should show up but Dhula - and she's pissed. She beats the stuffing out of Ingrid and tells her never to show her face in Millennium City again.

Story ends with Tom's 100th birthday celebration.

I really enjoyed the way these last couple of issues were set up. The story in a story plotting was done very well. Added a lot of dimension and history to a kind of young (in terms of number of issues) character. Chris' art is great as usual and Gary Frank draws some wicked left hooks. All around nice ending to the first multi issues arc.

Buy it here - and happy readings.