They say variety is the spice of life. Who are they you ask, good question? That’s not what I am about right now. It’s about the spice. And the variety in my top five books of the week – a little Marvel, a little DC, some Icon (although that is Marvel) and some Vertigo (ditto DC) and a big ol’ IDW to finish things off … enjoy.

First rule about Fight Club is you can’t talk about Fight Club. Second rule about Fight Club don’t fight the God of Thunder. Thor is one bad dude and no more is that evident than in the milestone issue #600 this week. All of J. Michael Straczynski’s slow-burning plotlines come to a head as Odin’s son is outshone by the God of Lies – Loki (she’s back or he, depending on where Loki is).

Thor #600 is a big-budget epic that does not disappoint. Plus, there is more as Straczynski and artist Oliver Copiel (with Marko Djurdjevic) deliver a true spectacular with surprising guest stars and a stunning conclusion. Asgard and Thor will not be the same after this one.

There are a lot of Batman stories floating around in the DC ‘verse right now. And most of them are hard to decipher (with apologies to the brilliant Grant Morrison and Neil Gaiman). That is why this week I am going to recommend Batman and the Outsiders Special #1. This book is a perfect segue way to the comic becoming just plain-old Outsiders (starting with issue #15).

Peter Tomasi (with Adam Kubert on pencils) tells a tale that has been needed since all of this Batman R.I.P. nonsense began so many months ago. Batman is dead, long live the Outsiders. The Special is basically a putting-the-team together book, but it’s a fun one to see who has been placed in charge of Batman’s secret team. And the roster looks like it could be a blast.

Two issues up for Ed Brubaker’s Incognito, and for the second month in a row, I found myself wanting more as Incognito #2 furthers the story laid out in the premiere issue of Zack Overkill and his dreary life in witness protection. Brubaker’s nourish storytelling is perfect for this off-beat tale of a super villain looking to get back in the game, without anyone being none the wiser.

The second issue further develops Overkill while also giving us additional new mysteries like that show on television about the island and plane crash. Brubaker’s partner-in-crime from Criminal, Sean Phillips, art work is a superb compliment and paints a seedy picture that Phillips is quickly becoming the go-to-guy for in comics.

Back in the land of fairy tales, the Fables are still reeling from the events of the War in issue #81. Fabletown has been destroyed and one of their own is not faring too well. On top of that, one of the bad’s which shall not be spoken of is on the loose with only one thing on its mind – fables. Bill Willingham’s story is only getting stronger as it approaches its seventh birthday.

Fables #81 is also notable as it is the last James Jean cover. Jean even adds some dialogue for the first time in this issue (its not what you think) and leaves us with another superb cover that tells a tale within a tale, as only a fable can do.

Last but not least is a guilty treat from Chuck Dixon (take that DC Comics) and Robert Atkins as IDW’s reboot of G.I.Joe #2 arrives this week. The mystery surrounding the final cylon, I meant box, deepens as more characters from Joe lore begin to get introduced.

Dixon has done a nice job two issues in of reimaging the G.I.Joe franchise and fans of the original book and cartoon should not be disappointed. All I can say is I can’t way for the next issue to see what happens with that box, and who else we get to meet.

Until next week, don’t forget to tip your dog walkers on the way out – Peace!

Know the old saying that big things come in small packages? Well, that is how I like to describe the comics that shipped this week. When I first saw the list of what was coming out, there was not too much to get excited about (besides Buffy, which is always enough to get excited about), but all that changed as I continued to read through this week’s pile and strained to pick just five books that I liked.

First, there were not a lot of actual comics shipping this week. It seemed after slamming us for the past 21 days, all the companies were taking a collective sigh to catch their breaths (which as a reader I am quite fond of the lull as well since it also allows me a moment to collect my thoughts and give my brain a break).

With all that in mind I was shocked (SHOCKED!) to find that I had placed 10 comics in my like pile. Generally I may go one or two books over, but 10, and on such a small week. But 10 it was. Ten is a great round number but too many to review so I muddled through to make my recommendations more manageable.

My pick of the week is Adventure Comics #0. The issue is solicited as a reprint of Adventure Comics #247 from back in the day when Superboy first met the Legion of Super-Heroes. But hidden in the back of the book is an original Geoff Johns tale with art by Francis Manapul. The new story sort of feels like it fell from the cutting room floor from the recently-concluded New Krypton storyline. And the best part might not have been the actual yarn itself (which featured Lex and Braniac) but the coming in June part where it was announced that Adventure Comics #1 (I believe with Mr. Johns at the helm writing the Legion, oh yeah!) will ship.

Continuing on the Legion theme, I also selected another Johns’ book this week as Legion of Three Worlds #3 dropped with art by George Perez and Scott Koblish. Perez’s pencils are masterful (as usual) and I don’t know about you but I feel as if this story should have been the main Final Crisis arc. Another piece of good news from DC this week was this mini-series being extended to five issues (here’s just hoping they ship on time). It was breathtaking (and a little confusing) watching all the Legion teams from the different Earths (and eras) come together to fight Superboy Prime (if only they knew back in Adventure Comics #247).

I am tapping one of Duane Swiercyznski’s three comics this week as my third pick, and it might not be the one you are thinking. Both Cable and Iron Fist were solid stories (as usual), but my selection is X-Men: The Times & Life of Lucas Bishop #1 (of 3). Oh how terrific a job you did Mr. Swierczynski as I was riveted to the page watching a young Lucas Bishop born and grow under the persecution of being a mutant. I actually felt for Bishop, and to be honest I have not really liked his obsessive quest to hunt down Cable and kill the red-haired girl. And the last panel, I wonder aloud who that “X-Man” is that meets Bishop – can’t wait until next week.

Dark Reign continues to produce new titles for Marvel as the aftermath of Secret Invasion may have a bigger impact than the Skrulls actual attempt at infiltration (never count on a Skrull to do the job right). Anyway, with a bunch of premiere issues under the Dark Reign header this week the one that stuck out the most was Secret Warriors #1. Nick Fury is back, and he is just as nasty (an even more mysterious) than ever. Brian Michael Bendis plotted this one out with Jonathan Hickman who provided the actual words. Still, Bendis’ impact is felt on every page, especially the reveal on the last panel. Let me just quote the immortal Keanu Reeves, “whoa.” And what is it with Marvel books mastering the cliffhanger so made famous in part I of Star Trek The Next Generation “Best of Both Worlds” episode? Maybe someone at DC should steal a page from this playbook.

My fifth selection was a surprise even to me. I was actually wondering aloud if there was anyone enjoying this book when after I read this week’s issue I found myself in that group. Amazing Spider-Man #585 by Marc Guggenheim and John Romita Jr. finally started to answer some questions that have been around since Brand New Day commenced. And let me tell you, the answers might astound you (they sure did me). Joe Quesada has been saying to trust him with this story that it will pay off in the end, and I think I can see that light at the end of the tunnel. Not that I expect everything to be answered immediately, but this week was a good start. And most importantly, it seemed to make sense (to me). But you will need to be the judge.

Well, that is my five for the week. But as I stated earlier, I had actually picked out a total of 10 books to gush about. So in rapid fire succession, here is my “back” five; Buffy the Vampire Slayer #22 (Harmony’s new-found fame has no limits or effect on the Scoobies), Black Panther #1 (Doom vs. T’Challa, ’nuff said), Soul Kiss #1 (an interesting story from the folks at Image which I want to read more), Bang Tango #1 (the solicitation of this new Vertigo mini-series does not do the story justice. I think it may be a new guilty pleasure), and finally, Ultimate Wolverine vs. Hulk. I know, I know, this one came out so many years ago, but Damon Lindelof finally got around to finishing it and the first issue was so fun, if anyone actually remembers. Plus, it’s got Leinel Yu on art.

That’s it boys and girls, until next week, don’t forget to tip your baby sitter – Peace!

Captain Wednesday – Your Friendly Neighborhood Comic Dude

Welcome back to the third part of my Catching Up series. After tackling the DC Universe’s animated features and series last week, now is the time to take a longer look at the Marvel animated ‘verse in all its glory. But be warned all you Stan Lee disciples out there, you may not like everything you read.

It has come to my attention (by myself) that while singing the praise of almost everything in animated form by DC Comics, I kept taking little potshots at the Marvel productions. Upon further review for this article I realize I may have been a little unfair of some of my criticisms directed towards comics Evil Empire (sorry, while I am not a total insider I do know a little about how Marvel treats the industry and sometimes I feel they are evil – plus every story needs a villain).

So without further fanfare or ramblings by yours truly let’s take a longer look at the Marvel animated series – specifically Wolverine and the X-Men, Spectacular Spider-Man and Fantastic Four. To my shock and bewilderment I actually like 66% of the shows mentioned above.

Let’s begin with the one I do not care for, shall we? Since Marvel decided to sell the rights to Wolverine and the X-Men to Nickelodeon, which had the bright idea of sticking the show on Niktoons, I am not sure how many people actually get to view this one. And maybe they are better off for it. I gave it a chance, watching on youtube since some nice Canadian (are there really any others besides Sean Avery?) uploaded all of the episodes eh.

While the trailers for the show looked good and honestly got me excited, watching the first episode it became quite evident that this was going to be a painful addition to the Marvel animated family. I am not sure where to begin but the thing that sticks in my mind most is the 1990’s Fox version of the X-Men. I know for a lot of you out there this was your first Marvel animated experience and you remember it fondly while crediting it for getting you interested in the X-Men and comics in the first place. And to that I say, it did its job.

Yes, the stories were classics ripped from the pages, but nothing else about the series was. Wolverine and pals reminds me of the melodramaticness that was the Fox X-Men. It’s like Dawson’s Creek, if Dawson’s Creek was a cartoon. While Wolverine is so popular (which I do not get) I understand making him the lead, but he always serves the story better as part of the team. That is why the character worked (for me) in the beginning. Now its feels forced. Everything about the new series feels forced.

The animation is not that great and I love watching a scene where it’s raining, and a car has its windshield wipers on but there is not actual rain falling. What is that about? Must be the same people who did Ultimate Avengers and decided to have the background drummer just move his arms up and down for the entire scene (No, I am never going to let that one go because they should be embarrassed with themselves).

Anyway, I have wasted enough time on that show as you must know now that I say instead of watching Wolverine and the X-Men, get a root canal, you will have a better time.

Now let’s have some fun, which is what the Spectacular Spider-Man is all about. The animation is different, but good (although it took some time to get used to the big eyes). Pete is a teenager again (ala Ultimate Spidey) and the stories are geared towards the kiddies, but are capable of entertaining us big children as well.

The first season the web-head took on the Goblin, Sinister Six, Doc Ock, Venom, Vulture and more and more and more. It was literally a who’s who of Spidey’s rogue’s gallery, crammed into 13 fun episodes. There was also Gwen Stacy, MJ and Harry Osborn. I am so looking forward to the second season.

Christopher Yost and Craig Kyle capture brilliantly the guilt that Pete carries with him everyday. Remember, with great power comes yada, yada, yada … bottom line, they get it and are showing us how much they do actually get it. Wish they could translate some of that mojo over to the new X-Men show.

Last but definitely not least is the Fantastic Four. In the beginning of the 26-episode run I was a little critical. The animation was good, but severe in places (like Sue and Johnny’s pointy chins, which I still can’t get past). There was a good mix of CGI and animation that impressed me as I watched more and more shows. The thing about this series is that it continued to impress me with each episode and I could not get more fast enough (which was a problem since Cartoon Network only showed half of the episodes produced over a three-year period) – thank goodness for DVD sets.

Now I am a minority when it comes to this, but I liked the FF movies. Appreciated the lightness of the first one and was just happy to get a second one (a third anyone?). One of the things I felt the movies did well was capture who the characters were at their heart. If anything, the animated version did an even better job of showing us the real FF.

The voice work was superb, especially the changing of the Thing’s voice the rare instances he went back to being Ben Grimm because you can’t tell an FF story without making the Thing Ben again at least one time. Besides, it gave Yost and Kyle the opportunity to throw in the She-Hulk (as a member of the FF). Other guests included the Hulk (vs the Thing!), Iron Man and Ant-Man. Victor was back to his arrogant self and the Mole-Man was as creepy as he should be. All was right in the animated version of the FF.

Next time I will review the Marvel animated feature films masquerading as quality (there goes the potshots again). Until then, don’t forget to tip your cab driver – Peace!

Captain Wednesday – Your Friendly Neighborhood Comic Dude

Hulk Smash! Sorry, had to get that out of the way after viewing the Marvel Universe’s latest animated offering, Hulk Vs, which pits the big green guy against Wolverine and Thor among others.

Just as DC has its animated brain trust (in Bruce Timm we believe) so does Marvel. The two wonder kids of Christopher Yost and Craig Kyle who came to us during the X-Men Evolution animated series (and have never left) are at it again with two very diverse stories featuring the Hulk.

Yost and Kyle are quite clever in crafting two separate tales as neither is a straightforward Hulk-a-palooza with the big guy just wailing away, but you do get those moments.

For fanboys (and you know who you are) picking up this DVD for the Hulk Vs Wolverine slugfest, you will not be disappointed as a good part of the (only) 37-minute long film is the two getting to know one another in the most violent way possible. In fact, I felt a little squeamish a couple of times as no longer did I have to use my imagination with the drawings on the page as the Hulk pummeled away at Wolverine’s head or when the crazy-Canuck stuck his claws in the Hulk’s chest, back or various other body parts. Please note both of the features are rated PG-13 with the Wolverine story being the most violent and graphic.

The story is done in such a way that it really is not as much a Hulk story as it is a Wolverine story. The Hulk just happens to be the catalyst for the events and a tour of it’s a Wolverine/Weapon X life. And there is more as in guest stars galore. I am only going to throw one name out there because his appearance actually made me laugh quite a number of times and that is everyone’s favorite Merc with a Mouth, Deadpool. (Make sure you keep the disc running until after the credits as there is an extra scene at the end with the aforementioned Wade Wilson that will leave you in stitches).

Hulk vs Thor finds the big green guy pulled up in Asgard’s business as Loki (yes) has devised yet another scheme to dethrone his hated step-brother Thor. As with any good Asgard story it has all the usual suspects in Balder, Sif, Enchantress, Odin and Hela to name just a few.

There have not been many animated versions of Thor (and the Ultimates does not count because that is not the God of Thunder) and this one does not disappoint. ‘Tis how I suspected hine to be all along on the animated screen, but I digress…

This time the Hulk and Bruce Banner have more to do in the story as they are not as much the central point but pivotal to everything that is occurring and that will happen. For fans of Asgard, Loki’s role will not disappoint. As for Hulk vs lineup, Thor might not be the one I would have picked, but the story was good and I still got my geek moments out with Wolverine.

I usually beat up Marvel for their animated feature production values on a regular basis. After watching the first two Ultimate movies and Iron Man, I gave up and did not even bother with Dr Strange and Next Avengers. The animation is generally not strong nor is the story telling. Well I guess Marvel is learning from its mistakes because both stories are good and worthy of the characters (and most importantly) my time.

The animation is also strong and there are no throw away background scenes where the drummer’s arms go up and down in the same motion the entire time as in Ultimate Avengers (even the Muppet’s Animal changes up his stride every now and then). There is actually a terrific from the page moment during Wolverine’s fight with the Hulk where you see the Hulk’s enraged face in Wolverine’s claws – most excellent.

So there you have it, two films for the price of one is what you get with this one as the second feature, Hulk vs Thor, clocks in at 45 minutes of running time. That is 122 minutes all told. The length is actually just right as neither story tends to drag (and how could it when its rock-em, sock-em Hulk time?).

Back to the superstar duo of Yost and Kyle, the pair have shepherded along some key Marvel animated projects of late, including the recent Fanatastic Four series (which I liked) and the ongoing Spectacular Spider-Man (which is fun). They are the go-to guys when it comes to bringing Marvel’s heroes to animated life. They do not let us down here, although I can not say the same for their current run on X-Force.

If you know anything about Yost and Kyle’s earlier Marvel claim to fame and how one of their characters became the first Marvel ‘toon to make the jump from the screen to the page (ala Harley Quinn) then pay attention during the Wolverine show, especially when they review the Weapon X lab.

Don’t forget to tip your taxi driver on the way out – Peace!

Captain Wednesday – Your Friendly Neighborhood Comic Dude

There is the world, and then there is way that each of us chooses to look at the world. Generally when I look at the world, it is through rose-colored (or Bobby Clarke colored) glasses. It is just who I am. This explanation will serve to rationalize my top five comics of the week (and my surprising rant at the end of my review). Thus without further ado …

How does the old joke go? How about any old joke for that matter? What do you get when you let the lead singer of My Chemical Romance write a comic book for Dark Horse Comics? How about a pretty damn good comic as The Umbrella Academy: Dallas #3 hits shelves this week.

If you have yet to pick up The Umbrella Academy, don’t start with this issue. There is too much history in the nine previous stories before this week that you would be totally lost. Go and pick up The Apocalypse Suite which is now available in trade paperback. Then when you realize that you have been missing out on one of the finer comics in the ‘verse, you can pick up the first three editions of the current run.

I read this week’s issue and as I turned each page I could not believe Gerard Way was capable of such storytelling. This week’s issue (”Television or Are You There, God? It’s Me, Klaus”) is just as much fun as the previous two in this story arc. Ever since they saved the world in Apocalypse Suite, the surviving members of the Umbrella Academy are shells of their former heroic selves, none more so than Space Boy (and wait until you see what happens to him this week).

And before I forget, Gabriel Ba’s artwork is a magnificent compliment to the tale of Number Five, the White Violin and the Séance (just to name a few).

It has been a long time since New Avengers has been good. I am talking the beginning of Brian Michael Bendis’ run on New Avengers oh so many issues ago. The previous arc was okay but felt like filler for Secret Invasion. Now we are into the good stuff as issue #49 finds Luke Cage dealing with the consequences after he just agreed to a deal with the devil (or Norman Osborn for detail’s sake).

Just as he did last week with Dark Avengers #1, Bendis pens a tale where I think one thing is going to happen only be surprised once again, especially by the actions of everyone involved on the last panels. Without giving any specifics away, you have to love when Norman states “Guess who just made the list.” This issue needs to make your list, and fast.

Once again this poor title was way down on my reading list, and once again The Incredible Hercules proved just how incredible Greg Pak and Feed Van Lente are at story-telling in the ultimate buddy book of the millennia.

I have to admit I was a little more than confused as to what was going on but the end was worth my befuddlement. Let’s just say that Spider-Woman, a female Wolverine, Ms. Fantastic and the White Phoenix all make appearances in a topsy-turvy world that is upside down for Amadeus Cho and our hero Herc. Ever since this title was turned over to the God during World War Hulk it has been a solid performer every month. Issue #125 does not disappoint.

Sometimes I think I take Mark Millar and Bryan Hitch’s run on Fantastic Four for granted. Sometimes I feel the story is sort of dragging or not as grandiose as I expect from this duo. But I was reminded today by my friend George just how good and how much we both always look forward to the FF coming out each month. And for the longest time that was not the case.

Fantastic Four #563 hits shelves this week and it’s a nice break from all the commotion that has been going on in the title since the dynamic duo took over about a year ago. This is a classic FF tale with it centering on the family and what is happening in the world as the bread crumbs to the new threat are starting to be found. I think Stan and Jack would be particularly proud of this issue. There are no Earth-shattering moments, just a good-old fashion FF time.

Last but not least, Nova is like The Incredible Hercules for me. The title always works its way towards the bottom of my reading pile, and I am always astounded at how much I enjoy it. This was literally the second to last book I read tonight. It was so much more than where it was located in my stack.

Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning have done a terrific job with the story of Richard Rider, who used to be the sole remaining member of the Nova Corp. In the last few issues, Worldmind has decided to restart the Corps much to Rider’s chagrin. Not being able to do anything to stop an ever-growing powerful Worldmind, you get the feeling reading Nova #21 that things are not going as they should.

Abnett and Lanning allow me inside Rider’s head and I feel the dread he has as the events of this week’s tale unfold on the page. And wait until how the issue ends.

I have never been a fan of the sci-fi comics (Green Lantern, Nova, etc.), which is a real surprise since I am a Star Trek nut. That being said, I need to start moving Nova up higher in the read pile.

And now my rant for the week and if you had not noticed no DC books made it into my recommendations. And there is a reason for that as they dropped the ball, big time. Superman was decent, but really only got going until the end. Batman, which was the second part of the “Heart of Hush” follow up by Paul Dini, saw a disappointing end to what was a very enjoyable eight-issue arc (and a complete waste of a great Catwoman appearance).

But now I take notice with The Powers That Be at DC Comics and ask what were you thinking? I know there are business decisions that need to be made. Books that don’t sell well need to be retooled, cancelled or what have you – and such was the case of the poor-performing but entertaining (at least for me) Legion of Super-Heroes.

Hope was restored about a year ago when Jim Shooter regained the reigns to the title that made him a comics’ legend. DC decided Legion had enough time to prove itself recently and that it was going to end. Shooter’s current story was planned to end around issue #54. DC decided issue #50 (this week’s book) was the end. So this week when I opened up the issue to see that Shooter and artist Francis Manapul were not even involved with the finale’s production and were replaced, I was beside myself. It is insulting enough to not allow Shooter to finish what he started on his terms. Finish the story in an annual or special ala Superman Last Son. Show the man, and book, some respect.

And don’t even get me started on the farce that was Final Crisis #7…

Don’t forget to tip your Starbucks barista – Peace.

Captain Wednesday – Your Friendly Neighborhood Comic Dude

Not a planned review, but after watching this week’s Batman: The Brave and the Bold episode I just had to discuss with all of you in the webverse. This week’s show was titled “Fall of the Blue Beetle,” and I am thinking okay maybe this is an episode where Jaime fails and learns a lesson on his way to becoming a “real” hero.

Well I was sort of right and a lot of wrong. Jaime does learn a lesson, mostly why he was selected to become the Blue Beetle in the first place. But this episode was also about Ted Kord’s Blue Beetle and the cast and crew at Batman: Brave and the Bold could not have done the character more justice if they tried.

First let me say this, I am a huge Ted Kord Blue Beetle fan, and an even more of a Blue & Gold fan (when Ted teams up with Booster Gold). Kord’s return to the DC ‘verse are the only issues of the current run of Booster Gold that I enjoyed when they brought (or pulled) Kord back for a couple of issues. Blue & Gold’s glory days in the Giffen-Maguire Justice League was just plain fun.

I don’t want to give to much away, because I always write spoiler free, but I am just gushing over this episode. Don’t forget that this is primarily a kid’s cartoon so the story content has to be delivered in a way as not to frighten the blue beetles out of all the little ones. And how do you tell a tale where in the end, Ted Kord dies so that Jaime can become the Blue Beetle. I’ll tell you how, this week’s episode is how.

Wil Wheaton (Wesley from Star Trek TNG) voices Ted Kord and Blue Beetle 2. Will Friedles continues his terrific job voicing Jaime. The animation is awesome and the Blue Beetle Bug never looked better. Plus the soundtrack was swinging as usual.

If you are looking for a reason to watch one of these episodes, this weeks was the one. And the future should be bright for the rest of the season as I have found that when these series have their moment it is all uphill from there.

Don’t forget to tip the concierge on your way out – Peace!

Captain Wednesday – Your Friendly Neighborhood Comic Dude

Welcome back kiddies to the second of my four-part animated “catching up” series. Today I will be reviewing the last three DC Universe animated shows – Batman: Brave and the Bold, The Batman and Legion of Superheroes. So get on your pajamas, pour a bowl of your favorite sugar cereal, make pretend its Saturday morning and park your butt in front of the TV, its cartoon time!

Just like the animated features, my preferences tend to side towards DC when it comes to overall production. The stories, animation and voice actors all top the Marvel small screen versions on a daily basis, plus twice on Sunday. One would think that since Marvel is now doing everything in-house, this would not be the case.

Although Warner Bros. produces the DCU animated fare, I think it is evident that its not random WB people working on the television shows. You only have to go as far as Bruce Timm to see an overlying theme in all the productions. However, Timm has moved on to the animated movies, leaving an opportunity for a new vision – a vision in my opinion which does not disappoint.

The latest offering from the animated DCU is Batman: Brave and the Bold (which can be seen Fridays on Cartoon Network or downloaded on iTunes – my preferable mode). First, Brave and the Bold is definitely a kids cartoon with stories geared towards a family experience. However, there is no where else you can see so many B-List DC heroes at one time as Brave and the Bold is the ultimate in team-ups.

Each episode Batman partners with two new heroes. Before the title sequence, he will be seen already in-action with Kamandi, Guy Gardner, Fire or the Blue Beetle (the Jaime version). Then the story begins with another hero – Silver Age Green Arrow, Deadman, Wildcat, etc. The action always takes place outside of Gotham finding weird alien locales, the past or the JSA gymnasium.

The animation is different than what we have experienced before and the show’s music has a 60’s jazz feel to it that makes it even more fun. The stories are good, and should be able to hold the interest of any adult looking to enjoying themselves. Hardcore Batman animated fans will probably go into cardiac arrest with this one, especially after the just finished-The Batman series. But I say, give it a go. You will be surprised.

The only odd thing which after seven episodes still stands out to me is the decision to cast former Drew Carey Show alum Diedrich Bader as the Dark Knight. Each time I hear Batman speak, I am waiting for the neighbor in Office Space to bang on Peter’s wall to turn on the breast exam channel. It’s not a negative criticism of the show or him, but rather an observation. Still, Bader’s voice work is good and seems to be perfect for Brave and the Bold.

The next two series both ended last year. The Batman received five solid seasons and debuted right around the time of Batman Begins. Alan Burnett exec produced and Michael Goguen was a supervising producer with animation provided by former comic-artist Jeff Matsuda.

This one took a beating from the hardcore fans mentioned earlier (who many I don’t think even watched an episode) as this was the first-animated incarnation of the Bat not to have Kevin Conroy voicing the Dark Knight and not to refer to the hours of canon that came before in Batman TAS, Batman Beyond and Justice League. It is probably akin to Enterprise for Star Trek fans after over 700 hours of established Trek lore (although as a self-described Trek fan, I loved Enterprise).

I liken animated shows to college teams as you need to turn the core over every four years. For college teams, its about sustaining a winner, for animated shows, its about finding a new audience.

But don’t beat this show up too much, it told great stories with a new twist on Gotham’s rogue’s gallery. Plus, there was some A-List names doing voice work, including Gina Gershon as Catwoman (meow), Edward James Olmos, Adam West (is he the new animated-voice go-to guy now?), Ming-Na (ER, Final Fantasy) and many more.

The overall production was excellent and in later seasons they introduced Batgirl, Robin and the JLA (once again to the chagrin of those overseers). Still, if you can take it for what it was worth, it was a really fun 30 minutes each week.

Last but certainly not least was the Legion of Superheroes, which came to an end after only two seasons. Due to the continuing lawsuit over the rights to Superman, this was originally tabbed to be called Superboy and the Legion. But that is mostly a sidebar.

I had high hopes for this one, and while the first season stories (once again geared towards kids) seemed to sputter, overall the show was decent. The animation and voice work were all solid. And the only true noticeable absence in the first season was the omission of Cosmic Boy.

There must have been a lot of negative feedback after year one however because season two saw a new direction for the show, plus the introduction of Cosmic Boy (finally) and a future-cloned version of the Man of Steel (which was just weird). He was an angry version of the boy scout (must have been the clone thing) and if the WB thinks a “darker” Superman movie is going to succeed like the Dark Knight, they need only look as far as this disastrous move in LOSH.

Plus, for some reason they decided to try and make “some” of the characters older, giving Lighning Lad a chin-beard and changing Braniac 5’s haircut. I wonder how many meetings were had over these two decisions (should we cut Felicity’s hair?). Also, Saturn Girl seemed to take a backseat. If this show did not end after the second season, my viewing of it probably would as the stories grew increasingly uninteresting.

There was a couple of glimmers of hope in the second season with an origin story of the three original founding members that really stood out as fun. I felt as if the show had the same problem the current comic run does, trying to make the small “legion” of orginal fans happy who faithfully still read the book looking for the group from when they were kids. All the while trying to change things up and introduce the characters to a new audience; it’s just not clicking for them right now.

That’s all I have for today, I have rambled on far enough. In the end, each of these shows is a different and unique experience. Try them out, you just might find you missed or are missing something.

Next time, the Marvel animated ‘verse. Oh dear, hold onto your hats for that one as I am not all that impressed. Don’t forget to tip your hotel door man on the way out – Peace!

P.S. – There are a lot of DCU programs out there from the past and there is no way I can tackle them all in just one review. But one day I promise to “look back” at all of them (I am talking to you Batman TAS and Justice League).

And also, did you know that this year is the 15th anniversary of Batman: Mask of the Phantasm? And did you know that when it first came out, MOTP was released in the theaters (I should know, I saw it in one)? So nestle into your favorite chair this evening and throw the MOTP into the DVD player for old time sakes.

Captain Wednesday – Your Friendly Neighborhood Comic Dude

It is a dark time in the world of comics. (I felt like old Ben Kenobi just then, except I am not talking about the Rebellion or the Empire, but then again maybe I am). Anyhow, with both the Marvel and DC comic ‘verses plunged into Dark Reign and Faces of Evil things are just plain bleak right now on some of our favorite comic pages. Thus begins my five picks of the week …

If you are not familiar with my weekly reviews, let me begin by stating that they are always spoiler free. I very rarely get into specifics on the book lest to give something away before the audience gets to read them.

By nature, I am a pretty cheerful and positive sort and all this evil that is afoot and in charge brings me down a little bit. I know for some in comicdom this is a dream come true with the villains ruling the roost. And it’s not like we have not been teased with the “Old Man Logan” storyline or Kingdom Come. That being said, there were some real good stories this week with some real nasty individuals in the middle of things.

My pick of the week is a toss up between Faces of Evil Deathstroke and Dark Avengers #1. I was not prepared to like the Deathstroke book in the least bit and to be honest the only real reason I even gave it a go was because Georges Jeanty was supplying the artwork. Mark McKenna’s inks do not do Jeanty’s pencils justice, but it was still enough to get by. David Hine meanwhile was crafting a masterpiece on old Slade, who last we saw was dying after his encounter with Geo-Force on the pages of DC Last Will and Testament. FOE was a nice follow up to a not so great first story.

For fans of Deathstroke, you will be happy because everyone’s favorite DC Assassin is back baby, and possibly more dangerous than ever when we get to the last page. Of course there are family issues to wrestle out in this one before the Terminator can move on, but honestly, when are there not issues in that family?

Meanwhile, another evil dude – storming Norman Osborn – is just getting started at the havoc he is capable of playing in the Marvel hood. Brian Michael Bendis is at it again. How does someone who writes so many titles get it so right with everything he touches? Mike Deodato’s art works perfectly with this story. To be honest I thought the issue was going to be Tony Stark getting the gang back together to go after Osborn. I could not have been more wrong on so many levels. Trust me this is one issue you don’t want to miss.

Next is another book I was not ready to like. I am not a big Dan Slott guy, just never have been. I pretty much stayed away from his entire run of Avengers Initiative and only grudgingly read his Amazing Spidey issues. This week, the Scarlet Witch was on the cover so I had to find out what’s what. And it looks like Mighty Avengers is going to be existing on its own from the other books for awhile. And from the looks of this week’s issue #21, it is going to be fun. Khoi Pham supplied the understated pencils and did his usual bang up job.

Coming in this week at number four is a shocker as well. I tagged Justice League of America #29 by Len Wein with a story on Starbreaker. The only real reason I liked this issue was because it felt like such an old school tale – might have had something to do with Wein penning the title this month. It was just good to see the old JLA back in action with orange and green uniform Aqauman, pre-married Ollie and Canary, and oh yeah the Atom Baby! But wait, there’s more. As much fun the old tale was, the last two pages and its reveal pay it off even bigger for the next issue. I can say no more.

Last but not least are two titles. That’s right I am going with a tie for fifth place. Unlike my previous occupation which frowned on ties, I am going with the tie. To stay with the theme of this article once again I was so not wanting to read this comic or expecting to like it. Although the latter is a lie but we will get to that in a second. Punisher Frank Castle Max #66 came out this week written by Duane Swiercyznski.

Not to name drop, who am I kidding let’s name drop away. Duane frequents the store I work in a bit. We got to talking and he told me about his upcoming arc on Punisher and that it was going to take place in Philly. Remember how I am not a Slott guy, well I am even less a Punisher guy. The only time in comics that I even liked the character was when Captain America was kicking his ass in Civil War. I just don’t care for the title.

But a funny thing happens to me when the name Swiercyznski is on the cover, I have to read it. I never really liked Cable, but have been enjoying the current run immensely by our aforementioned writer. Iron Fist is immortal, who cares. Well, Swiercyznski makes me care. So there we have it, the slippery slope that is the Punisher. Still don’t care for the character after reading this issue, but loved the story and where it’s going.

What title tied this week for a mention on my Top Five, well that would be Angel After the Fall #16 or Season Five of the television show. IDW has given it the old college try. This title is not as strong or good as Buffy Season Eight, but it still gives me more stories in the world of Whedon and for that I am grateful. This month’s issue sort of hits a reset button and I hope after meandering around for a year and a half that Brian Lynch will finally takes us somewhere. And please keep Franco Urru on the art or bring David Messina over, otherwise just don’t publish for that month because no one else in the IDW pen can really get the likenesses down that well.

That’s it for this week boys and girls. Don’t know if you agree or not, but hopefully they and I will keep you entertained. Don’t forget to tip your barber’s on the way out (I am so going to run out of people to tip ain’t I?) – Peace.

Captain Wednesday – Your Friendly Neighborhood Comic Dude

First let me start off by saying that the DC animated features and series over the past several years is head and shoulders above Marvel’s productions. Marvel might be able to get the job done better when it comes to feature films, but the DC pen is by far mightier than the Marvel inkwell.

I am going to break this review up into two parts with today’s focusing on the last three animated feature releases. The next “Catching Up” review will look at the world of the DC animated series.

Animated comic fans have been very fortunate lately as DC Universe has been kicking out the moving pictures like a sweat shop in Guatemala making a 100,000 pairs of Nike sneakers a day (sorry Nike).

My favorite of the last three releases is Justice League: New Frontier. Based on Darwyn Cooke’s 12-issue series, the animated feature translates very well from the page. When watching an animated adaptation the viewer needs to remember that most animated movies only run 70-90 minutes long (which means, there is going to be some stuff left out).

I think genre fans as a whole get caught up with exact interpretations which leave many of them feeling underwhelmed and disappointed with the final product. While I try to temper my own expectations, I will admit it is hard from time to time to remember that piece of sage advice (hey, I was the one giving the advice so it has be awesome). But I digress.

Back to New Frontier. The feature produced by DC animated-God Bruce Timm and Michael Gougen (The Batman) is awesome and stays true to the writing and artistic style Cooke laid out in the comic book. Stan Berkowitz adapted the script very masterfully leaving in what causal fans would be familiar with while respecting the original story.

If anything, New Frontier made me appreciate Cooke’s book even more and is a perfect complement to the written words.

I am fascinated as to why, but happy just the same that when it comes to taking chances and thinking outside the box DC is always willing to risk the status quo and mess with traditional storytelling when it comes to Batman.

Batman: Gotham Knight is told in six vignettes that form a much larger story as we watch Bruce Wayne and the Bat mature from a young superhero into the Dark Knight. Each story has its own writer and animated style which appears perfect for that chapter’s prose.

Some of the writing talent includes DC Comics’ own Greg Rucka (Superman) and Brian Azzarello (The Joker) as well as screenwriter Josh Olson (A History of Violence) and Emmy-winner Alan Burnett. The animated style is pure anime fun with some of Japan’s biggest talent and visionaries illustrating Batman like he has never been seen before.

In addition, hardcore animated Batman fans will be happy as Kevin Conroy is back reprising his role of the Batman he made so famous for all those years on Batman: TAS, Batman Beyond and Justice League.

Last and sadly least is Superman: Doomsday. Here is a case where my expectations may have gotten the better of me but after multiple viewings I stick with my first gut reaction (which was disappointment).

It seems in the end Bruce Timm was trying to tell a story about the loss of Superman (almost exactly the same issue Bryan Singer was tackling in Superman Returns). Superman: Doomsday was not so much about Doomsday’s beat down on the boy scout but how the world responded to that loss.

I don’t understand what it is about the big guy that scares everyone off from a nice rock-em, sock-em story. Instead we get a story about feelings. Its not like an animated feature can’t tell an emotional story very well (just look at this summer’s Wall-E which should be a best picture nominee). Unfortunately there was no emotional investment in this story for the viewer.

Instead, Superman is left on the bench while everyone ponders why. In addition, the animated production one was not very strong. It’s the first time I have found issue with DC’s final animated product. It looks like the animators were trying to add depth to the characters faces with lines but instead made them look awkward and old.

In the end, I highly recommend New Frontier and Gotham Knight. These should be in any self-respecting fan’s collection. And while you are at it, make sure you have a nice copy of New Frontier on your bookshelf as well. As for Superman: Doomsday, I wish I could say at least we have the trade collection of the original story, but honestly that was not much fun either.

That’s it for now. Make sure you tip your bartenders on the way out. Peace.

Captain Wednesday – Your Friendly Neighborhood Comic Dude

Frank Miller was on his game in the mid-1980s. There was his Dark Knight Returns for DC, which established Bats into what he is today and set the tone and changed the way authors write everything in comics.

And then there was Daredevil: Born Again, which Marvel has collected (once again) this week as part of its Premiere Hardcover line. Born Again is the seminal moment for “the man without fear.” Just like Gwen Stacy’s death at the hands of the Green Goblin in the 70s established Peter Parker and Spider-Man, Born Again is the blueprint for everything Matt Murdock and Daredevil.

Born Again ran over seven issues and collects all eight Daredevils (#226-233) that Miller and artist David Mazzucchelli collaborated on. This is not the first time Daredevil’s life has been changed by Miller, as it was the writer’s earlier stint that killed off Murdock’s love in Elektra at the hands of Bullseye (in the classic double-sized issue Daredevil #181).

And while Elektra’s death was stunning and heartfelt for the blind lawyer from Hell’s Kitchen, Daredevil went on about his business. His every decision afterwards was not filled with guilt over her death (like Spidey’s with Gwen Stacy). Part of the reason I believe is that Elektra knew the deal when she was putting on the costume.

Born Again is the moment in Daredevil lore when everything changes and it is the ultimate Kingpin story. There is betrayal, loss (and a lot of it) and rebirth. It has Foggy Nelson (of course), establishes Ben Ulrich and reintroduces one Karen Page (and boy have we missed what was going on her life). Why are all the best Daredevil stories with Karen Page (Yellow, Guardian Devil)?

Miller pens a terrific tale of deconstructing a character and then picking them back up. It is a shame some of that beauty can not translate into what he has done recently – i.e. The Spirit and All-Star Batman and Robin.

I have never been a huge fan of Mazzucchelli’s artwork, but in this story it works really well. He has a gritty style that combined with Miller’s hard-boiled story telling becomes the perfect complement to the letters on the page. After experiencing this story all at once (I read the original month-by-agonizing month) and taking in Mazzucchelli’s splash pages, I have to think today’s artists whether knowingly or not took a page (or two) from Mazzucchelli’s run on DD. Simon Bianchi – I ‘m talking to you.

Anyway, that’s all I have for today. Remember to tip your waitress on the way out – Peace!

Captain Wednesday

Your Friendly Neighborhood Comic Dude

What’s there to say? Well a lot actually, but I won’t bore you with all the details. Well, maybe just a little. I am the comic book guy at your local store (but probably not YOUR local store). After a 13-year hiatus where I tried to do the “real” job thing I rediscovered my roots and returned to where it all began – the planet Kyrpton (well, not really). I returned to comic books and the store I worked from 1992-94.

I have been writing comic reviews for the store website for about a year now. In fact, my previous career saw me writing all sorts of articles and such, so I have a little experience in that area.

I am going to get this out of the way right now – I am a mainstream comic book whore. I love my tights and I am not going to apologize for it. The first monthly comic book I actually purchased was DC’s Blue Devil (who SO needs his own book again and a big-screen adaptation). The X-Men followed shortly thereafter and the rest is as they say institutionalization.

I started reading comics during their true glory days (and no, not when Stan Lee started Marvel). I read the Watchmen and Dark Knight Returns as they came out monthly. I was a big John Byrne guy back in the day (not so much now) and will swear by his run of X-Men (with Chris Claremont) and Fantastic Four. And although I do love the big-boy scout, I am not a major fan of Byrne’s time on Superman for whatever reason. have some standards, thank you very much.

So there you have it, my influences in the world of comics or at least my humble beginnings. Nothing classic like watching Gwen Stacy getting thrown off a bridge or romanticizing about Will Eisner’s Spirit, that being said Ben Edlund’s run on The Tick is one of my fondest memories (especially when The Tick discovered his battle cry – SPOON!).

I am also a disciple of Joss Whedon, worshipping at the altar and owning every format of Dr. Horrible that is possible. My mettle for him could be tested one day if the Master decides to write a sonnet about solar energy, but in Joss I trust, so it will be great and is sure to warm my cockles (what exactly is a cockle?).

Today my reading pile consists of a lot of goodness – Buffy (hands down the best comic book of the last two years), Action, Detective, Fantastic Four, Northlanders, Madame Xanadu, I Hate Gallant Girl, Gemini, Powers (Bendis, I need more!), Thor and Legion of Super Heroes (long live Jim Shooter) – to just name a few.

You have stayed with me long enough. I hope you enjoy the weekly reviews, which I promise will always be spoiler free. Don’t forget to tip your stewardess on the way out – Peace.