DISCLOSURE: The following is a synopsis and reviews of this week’s comic books from multiple publishers. If you like our reviews and would like to purchase these books you can do so by visiting our partners at TFAW.com. If you decide to buy anything through our provided links we get a small commission which helps keep our website alive and running. Thanks for your time.
ACTION COMICS PRESENTS: DOOMSDAY SPECIAL #1
In “Action Comics Presents: Doomsday Special #1,” Doomsday finds himself imprisoned in the fiery depths of hell. The responsibility to prevent his escape falls on the shoulders of Martian Manhunter and Supergirl. This standalone issue serves as a pivotal chapter that outlines the new circumstances surrounding Doomsday, specifically elaborating on his temporary possession of a human in a prior storyline. What makes this comic particularly engaging is its foray into DC’s uniquely interpreted Judeo-Christian cosmology. Martian Manhunter goes to great lengths to theorize that hell is a construct born from the collective psychic consciousness of humanity. The narrative takes an intriguing retro twist, evoking the spirit of edgy, occult-focused comics from the past that, although mainstream, flirted with the darker, Vertigo-esque tones. As an unexpected but delightful treat, the character Bloodwynd reemerges—aptly characterized as the “Superman of Hell,” adding a touch of nostalgia and humor. “Action Comics” shines brightest when it embraces its eccentric and quirky elements, and this special issue captures that essence perfectly.
Batman/Catwoman: The Gotham War – Battle Lines #1
“Batman/Catwoman: The Gotham War – Battle Lines #1” grapples with a tantalizing premise: what occurs when Gotham inches towards a semblance of safety, but not via Batman’s preferred methodologies? The core concept revolves around ideological clashes between Batman and Catwoman, as they wrestle with their differing visions of justice and safety for Gotham. Although the premise promises a compelling narrative, the execution unfortunately falls short of delivering the emotional and intellectual impact that such a dilemma could evoke.
Catwoman: Uncovered #1
“Catwoman: Uncovered #1” diverges from the conventional comic format, serving instead as an art-focused book that gathers a selection of cover artworks centered on Catwoman. While reviewing art books can be challenging due to the subjectivity of artistic interpretation, this particular issue stands out as one of the most exceptional “Uncovered” editions DC Comics has produced. The book takes a refreshing step away from the often hyper-sexualized depictions of Catwoman, opting to focus on various facets of her character—from her villainous tendencies to her aspirational qualities as a flawed hero. The collection is a visual odyssey that encapsulates her complexity, her capability, and her tumultuous relationship with Batman, all the while sprinkling in nods to her storied history and her fondness for felines. Though devoid of a traditional storyline, the selected covers nonetheless narrate a multi-dimensional tale that pays homage to one of DC’s most intriguing characters, offering her a spotlight that is long overdue.
G'Nort's Illustrated Swimsuit Edition #1
The latest in DC Comics’ seasonal fifth-week anthologies, “G’Nort’s Illustrated Swimsuit Edition #1,” distinguishes itself as possibly my favorite format in this recurring publication series. Deviating from the typical approach of cramming more than half a dozen disjointed stories into a single issue, this edition curates a more focused and engaging experience. It features two expansive, brand-consistent narratives, a special series of centerpiece material featuring G’Nort, and a meticulously curated collection of thematic cover art. The G’Nort-centric content steals the show, its charm encapsulated by the issue’s whimsically intriguing cover. Simon Bisley’s illustrations in these sections are particularly eye-catching and add a unique flair. John Layman’s interview with G’Nort not only sets the comedic tone for the rest of the issue but continually ramps up the level of absurdity, leading to genuine moments of hilarity. Two supplementary beach-based stories, “Baewatch” and “Over There,” offer fast-paced adventures. While “Baewatch” is a pun-inspired, cartoonish romp featuring Gotham’s heroines outsmarting Penguin, “Over There” elegantly spotlights Midnighter and Apollo, albeit with a somewhat awkward ending that oddly glorifies imprisonment. Artists Nicola Scott, Babs Tarr, Michael Allred, and Terry and Rachel Dodson are specially acknowledged for their cover art, which masterfully balances the unique demands of the Swimsuit Illustrated theme with their individual artistic styles. Overall, this edition proves that a bit of levity and meticulously curated art can make these quirky anthology issues a worthwhile investment.
The Riddler: Year One #6
Paul Dano and Subic conclude their gripping interpretation of Edward Nashton, also known as The Riddler, in the final issue of “The Riddler: Year One.” The series stands as a seminal work, offering a nuanced and unsettling portrayal of one of Gotham’s iconic villains. What sets this particular rendition apart is its ability to immerse the reader in Nashton’s unsettling world, generating an atmosphere of discomfort that perfectly complements the character’s on-screen adaptations. The artistic choices are nothing short of captivating, painting a Gotham City, Batman, and Riddler that are simultaneously repulsive and awe-inspiring. Paul Dano demonstrates that he has the writing chops to excel in the comic book medium, and there’s palpable excitement for any future projects he and Subic may collaborate on—be it Riddler-centric or otherwise. Even for those who aren’t particularly interested in The Riddler, “Year One” is a mind-bending, immersive thriller that absolutely demands your focus.
The Sandman Universe: Nightmare Country – The Glass House #4
In “The Sandman Universe: Nightmare Country – The Glass House #4,” readers encounter what feels like a narrative pivot—a calm before the final storm that the last two issues promise to unleash. Rather than zeroing in on a single character or subplot, the issue elegantly weaves between various story threads, allotting each a moment of spotlight to set the stage for the consequential choices these characters will face. Arguably, the most poignant scene involves Max and Madison—two otherwise ordinary humans connected only by a shared message board experience. They’ve unexpectedly become the unpredictable elements in a cosmic game orchestrated by far more powerful beings. The issue uses a particularly creative framing technique for their conversation, miniaturizing it against the vast background of Lucien’s shadowy library to underscore their seeming insignificance. Yet the irony of their dialogue is glaring: the most unsettling aspect of their ordeal is the glaring ignorance displayed by these cosmic entities about why or how these mere mortals are entangled in their grand schemes. The issue’s artwork brilliantly captures the feeling of liminality characteristic of the Dreaming, as it prepares readers for an anticipated grand conclusion.
Superboy: The Man of Tomorrow #5
Though “Superboy: The Man of Tomorrow” is still in the throes of defining its own identity—much like “Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow” did for Kara—there’s a lot to appreciate in the series as it delves deeper. Kenny Porter has been particularly effective in sculpting Conner’s complex journey of self-discovery. The issue’s most impactful moment involves Conner grappling with himself after a critical mistake, demonstrating that even when flawed, he has the capacity to inspire and be a beacon for others. Unfortunately, the issue’s middle segment, involving characters like Travv and the Cosmoteers, feels like filler material clumsily used to set up a predictable twist for the issue’s climax. However, this twist does lead to an impending face-off that promises to center around the theme of identity, raising interesting questions for future installments.
Blade #2
Maintaining the tone set in its inaugural issue, “Blade #2” offers another robust chapter, loaded with attitude and stylistic action that would make Wesley Snipes himself nod in approval. Following the introduction of the series’ initial arch-villain, the Adana, Blade travels to Japan seeking the assistance of an old love interest and weapons dealer. Both action and intimate scenes in the issue are bathed in a gritty aesthetic of shadows and leather, perfectly complementing the dangerous, supernatural world Blade inhabits. An unforgettable battle unfolds between a skyscraper and a helicopter, showcasing Blade’s vampiric abilities in a jaw-dropping sequence. Impressively, the narrative maintains its brisk pace while simultaneously filling in details of Blade’s backstory. This allows the series to lay down its roots without any slowdown, cementing its status as a sleek and stylish supernatural thriller that captures the essence of Blade at his best: vanquishing dark forces while looking effortlessly cool.
Danny Ketch: Ghost Rider #4
“Danny Ketch: Ghost Rider #4” concludes a narrative that has been 30 years in the making, tying up loose ends with a sense of neatness and finality. While the mini-series offers an acceptable storyline, it seems primarily aimed at offering nostalgic Easter eggs for older fans, rather than infusing new elements that could redefine or expand the Ghost Rider universe. Despite this, the issue serves as an enjoyable, fast-paced read that avoids the pitfall of being outright tedious. Although it may not break new ground or establish its own distinct flavor, it manages to maintain a level of entertainment, which is commendable in its own right.
Deadpool: Badder Blood #3
“Deadpool: Badder Blood” has morphed into something quite peculiar. Rob Liefeld delves into contemporary Deadpool humor and even revives concepts like the Deadpool Corps, which was a surprising but welcome reentry. The storyline around Killville, however, feels like a throwback to the 1990s’ obsession with virtual reality, and the plot seems a bit ad-hoc, making up its own rules on the fly about who is aware of what’s transpiring. This results in an uneven narrative experience that is not necessarily bad but feels somewhat disjointed, especially when compared to the original coherence and focus that Liefeld achieved in the “Bad Blood” miniseries.
Death of the Venomverse #3
Marvel’s “Death of the Venomverse” series offers readers a visual spectacle by showcasing a variety of unique Venom incarnations across multiple realities. The recruitment of characters like Silence and the Anti-Venoms in the second issue added an exciting twist. However, the battle scenes, though exceptionally executed by the team of Gerardo Sandoval, Jim Campbell, and Victor Olazaba, seem one-sided. Cullen Bunn has conjured up an indomitable foe in a hostless Carnage, rendering the confrontations increasingly predictable and in dire need of a morale-boosting win for the protagonists. The tantalizing cliffhanger at the end of this issue promises some upheaval, but it could also serve as a misleading bait-and-switch tactic. Despite the lack of equilibrium in battle outcomes, the visual splendor of different Venoms joining forces remains a highlight, as do the interactions between characters like Silence and Anne. The Rhino Venom iteration, in particular, continues to astonish. The next issue needs to inject some much-needed momentum to rejuvenate the narrative.
The Incredible Hulk #3
The third issue of “The Incredible Hulk” serves up an idyllic Hulk experience, pitting the green behemoth against sinister religious cults and demonic entities in remote mountain terrains. All this while he’s reluctantly safeguarding a child he doesn’t even have an affinity for. The story has a gooey, visceral quality to it, a characteristic less common in contemporary Marvel comics, but one that adds a welcome change of pace. Ultimately, this series seems poised to stand as a fitting companion to “Immortal Hulk,” offering readers a harmoniously twisted duo of stories that manage to capture different facets of the Hulk’s enduringly complex character.
Marvel Age #1000
“Marvel Age #1000” serves as a jubilant homage to the enduring charm of Marvel’s classic characters. In a back-to-basics approach, this special issue offers a smorgasbord of stories designed to evoke nostalgia and admiration for some of the most beloved figures in the Marvel universe. A particular highlight is a story dedicated to the original Human Torch, masterfully penned by Mark Waid and artfully illustrated by Alessandro Cappuccio, which should be considered essential reading for any comic book aficionado. Other standout stories include a Spider-Man tale crafted by Ryan Stegman and a Daredevil narrative by the duo of Armando Iannucci and Adam Kubert. However, the crown jewel of the entire collection is an early-days X-Men story by Rainbow Rowell and Marguerite Sauvage. This tale captures the essence of the original team so perfectly that it makes one yearn for the simpler narrative styles that once dominated comic books.
Ms. Marvel: The New Mutant #1
In the wake of seismic shifts in Marvel Comics’ storylines that have irrevocably altered Kamala Khan’s life, “Ms. Marvel: The New Mutant #1” suggests these changes may actually be advantageous for the character. The inaugural issue serves as a pivotal moment in Kamala’s comic book journey, bringing her character subtly closer to her Marvel Cinematic Universe iteration, yet retaining the unique qualities that have made her a standout character in the comics. Accompanied by vibrant artwork and an emotionally resonant exploration of Kamala’s personal identity, this first issue showcases all the ingredients necessary to make it a truly memorable addition to the Ms. Marvel canon.
Star Wars: Bounty Hunters #37
The latest installment of “Star Wars: Bounty Hunters” focuses on the quest to restore Valance’s deteriorating mental state. Guided by information from Boba Fett, Valance and his compatriots arrive at a remote space station, where they stumble upon its connections to an enigmatic group of droids—some of which are activated by the Scourge, a malevolent force sweeping across the galaxy. As an individual issue, it functions adequately, progressing the main story without becoming ensnared in irrelevant side plots. While the narrative hints at the station’s potential significance to broader events and key characters within the Star Wars universe, it remains to be seen whether these teases are exaggerated or if they are laying the groundwork for a more captivating reveal in upcoming issues. Given the inconsistent nature of previous entries in the “Star Wars: Bounty Hunters” series, a slightly lackluster installment is preferable to one that veers into annoying territory. Nonetheless, there’s hope that future issues will deliver more excitement.
Ultimate Invasion #3
In its third issue, “Ultimate Invasion” takes form as a story of cosmic and temporal scale, spanning both the multiverse and thousands of years. The narrative lens shifts dramatically through the transformation of Howard Stark’s worldview. The Maker’s sinister ambition for world creation and domination is laid bare in a new, chilling blueprint—something that was only vaguely hinted at in the closing pages of the series’ inaugural issue. Though the specifics of the looming conflict are yet to be completely understood, the intricate web of forces—both global and futuristic—promise an electrifying climax. Unlike a mere “mystery box” plot, “Ultimate Invasion” has unfolded as a complex narrative, offering glimpses into an alternate timeline rife with unpredictable possibilities. Aside from a few distracting panels marred by heavy linework, this third installment sets up all the crucial elements for a grand finale that promises to redefine Earth-1610 in astonishing ways. The anticipation for the series conclusion is palpable.
Wolverine #36
Issue #36 of “Wolverine” comes off as a bit disorienting as it abruptly shifts from wrapping up Logan’s recent storyline with Beast to diving almost immediately into a crossover event with Ghost Rider. The narrative is curiously sparse, focusing largely on visuals. Logan and Johnny Blaze find themselves in a concealed fortress, where they are captured, and Logan undergoes a demonic transformation through a dark, occult iteration of his original Weapon X program. The issue is replete with heavy metal aesthetics, but amidst the broader context of the ongoing “Fall of X” storyline and the imminent conclusion of this miniseries, the current issue feels more like a placeholder than a meaningful advancement of the story.
Arcade Kings #4
With its fourth issue, “Arcade Kings” undergoes a significant transformation. The narrative jettisons much of its retro video game and anime trappings, pivoting to focus on a deeply emotional confrontation between two brothers that escalates into a raw, physical brawl. Under less skilled storytelling, such a departure from the series’ familiar visual and thematic elements could have potentially weakened the narrative. However, Dylan Burnett and the creative team have managed to build a universe populated with characters of genuine emotional depth. This allows the audience to feel as emotionally invested—and subsequently as shattered—as Joe is by the end of the fight. This pivot adds layers of realism and relatability, underscoring the fact that “Arcade Kings” is more than just a collection of pop-culture references; it’s a story with heart.
Black Hammer: The End #1
Malachi Ward’s line art emerges as a standout feature in “Black Hammer: The End #1,” blending a reverential nod to the vibrant pop art of comics’ Silver Age with a modern, dark, and gritty aesthetic that has become synonymous with the Black Hammer series. The result is a visual style that pays homage to its roots while simultaneously catering to contemporary tastes. While the issue marks a captivating kickoff to the finale of this story, it grapples with a somewhat disjointed focus—aiming its narrative arrows in multiple directions, which prevents it from being an impeccable launchpad for the conclusion. Yet despite this, the overall effect is one of considerable promise as the series heads toward its climax.
Conan the Barbarian #2
Two issues deep, the latest Conan the Barbarian series encapsulates both the merits and drawbacks of adhering to a retrograde approach. The visceral action sequences and the vivid color palette, which seems to meld hues into each other, create an atmospheric quality that almost makes you forget you’re reading a contemporary 2023 publication. However, the series doesn’t manage to sidestep the recurring flaws that have affected prior Conan adaptations. Its character treatment doesn’t inject new life or perspectives into the mythos, creating an overarching sense of déjà vu for long-time readers. While the issue offers undeniably entertaining moments, it feels somewhat like a retread, lacking in groundbreaking content.
The Devil's Cut #1
Public opinion about another digital comics platform spearheaded by Steinberger, especially following the unsettling downfall of ComiXology, may be split. However, Mosher’s unswerving commitment to quality is a compelling reason to take a closer look at the physical print editions, at the very least. “The Devil’s Cut” particularly benefits from this, as the oversized anthology serves as a grand stage for a plethora of prominent artists. With pages that dwarf the dimensions of a standard laptop or tablet, the anthology presents the artistic contributions of Christian Ward, Elsa Charretier, Becky Cloonan, and numerous others on an impressively large scale. This allows for a more immersive and contemplative reading experience, inviting audiences to luxuriate in each page turn. The anthology is a stunning compilation that, story by story, continually reminds readers of the calibre of talent that currently exists within the world of comic book art and writing.
The Hunger and The Dusk #2
This book is nothing short of a feast for Dungeons & Dragons enthusiasts. While you certainly don’t need to be a die-hard D&D fan to relish its pages (the characters are universally relatable), anyone who takes joy in immersive role-playing experiences will find abundant reasons to become enamored with “The Hunger and The Dusk.” The artwork’s color palette is another high point, boasting an exceptional level of contrast that enhances both the characters and the landscapes. This makes each page not just an unfolding of the narrative but also a visual delight, elevating the overall reading experience to pure pleasure.
Local Man: Gold #1
If the initial story arc of “Local Man” didn’t convince you of the book’s uniquely quirky and reverential essence, then this one-shot installment will surely seal the deal. Focused on Jack’s humorous yet poignant quest to better the lives of his family on Mother’s Day, the narrative takes an unexpected twist that pushes him to face his past in the most outlandish manner imaginable. The creative duo of Tony Fleecs and Tim Seeley are in seamless sync, weaving a tale that’s a balanced mix of deeply meaningful moments and vibrant pop culture references. As for the Easter eggs scattered throughout the issue, they’re too splendid to give away here but serve as delightful bonuses that add yet another layer to this captivating story.
Mighty Morphin Power Rangers 30th Anniversary Special #1
BOOM! Studios truly honors the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers with a 30th Anniversary Special that splendidly covers the franchise’s rich past, its dynamic present, and intriguing future possibilities. This special commemorative issue features six distinct narratives, each bringing its own charm and emotional resonance to the Power Rangers universe. Although the final story doesn’t quite match the emotional punch of its predecessors, the anthology as a whole is a magnificent celebration. “Ode To Ernie” by Ryan Parrott, Eleonora Carlini, and Raul Angulo serves as a heartfelt homage to Ernie, a cherished side character in the Power Rangers lore. Meanwhile, “Wedding Vows” from Melissa Flores, Henry Prasetya, and colorist Matt Herms delivers the Tommy and Kat wedding scenario fans had long fantasized about. The emotionally charged “Alpha Directive” by Mat Groom, Marco Renna, Sara Antonellini, and Sharon Marino presents a poignant narrative involving Alpha 5 and Zordon, while “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Re-Imagine” by Amy Jo Johnson, Matt Hotson, Francesco Mortarino, and Joana LaFuente tantalizingly sets the stage for an exciting future story arc. Additionally, “Ranger Academy: Office Hours” from Maria Ingrande Mora, Jo Mi-Gyeong, and Sara Antonellini offers a flawless teaser for the upcoming Ranger Academy, and “What Time Is It?!” by Mairghread Scott and Daniel Bayliss pays homage to the quintessential tone and dialogue of classic Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, particularly excelling in its action scenes. Overall, this issue is a must-read for any fan of the franchise and stands as a triumphant tribute to 30 years of Morphin’ magic.
Monstress #47
Monstress #47 plunges us directly into the thick of tumultuous battle, allowing us to witness a convergence of characters, each passionately engaged in their own quests and conflicts. This is where the series shines its brightest, thanks to Marjorie Liu’s masterful handling of these large, intricate ensemble sequences. She orchestrates each character’s arc with such clarity and precision that you can easily follow the unfolding narrative across multiple fronts, fully understanding the significance of each character’s contributions. Kippa unveils a crucial connection that binds all the characters, utilizing it to establish contact with the child Maika. Ren also makes a dramatic entrance into the melee. The only drawback—if it can be termed as such—is the extended subplot involving Ren and the cats. While certainly enriching the world-building aspects of the series, these additional layers can make the already complex storyline slightly harder to navigate in places.
Star Wars: Hyperspace Stories #8
Set during the burgeoning era of The First Order, this issue spotlights the uneasy alliance between Kylo Ren and Admiral Hux as they are assigned by Supreme Leader Snoke to subjugate a new planet. Kylo Ren, a standout character from the Star Wars sequel trilogy, uses this platform to display his calculated and intimidating strategies, imposing not only upon the planet’s inhabitants but also keeping Hux on his toes. The tension-filled interactions between these two offer an in-depth look at the previously underexplored rift between them, enriching our understanding of their reluctant partnership. While the book might not significantly alter your perception of the events in the sequel trilogy, it delivers a riveting narrative focusing on relatively new villains in the Star Wars universe—ones not confined to the roles traditionally filled by the Galactic Empire or the Separatists. Whether or not you’re a Kylo Ren aficionado, the issue provides a fascinating and entertaining exploration of his dark, complex character.
W0RLDTR33 #5
W0rldtr33 has rapidly established itself as a formidable contender for 2023’s best new horror comic. Issue #5 is a narrative whirlwind, revealing the staggering repercussions of the “Undernet” across two timelines—one present and one future. Both timelines unfurl in a manner that is not only captivating but also compelling enough to ensure that readers will remain hooked for upcoming developments. The future-focused storyline is particularly stunning, sketching out a bleak, worst-case scenario that leaves us yearning to know more. The comic does not hold back on the horror elements as desperate actions are undertaken in an effort to thwart the Undernet in the present timeline. W0rldtr33 hits every mark, offering a nightmarish yet enthralling tale that should be on every horror aficionado’s radar. It is undeniably the horror comic to keep an eye on.