Monday, July 22, 2019

Comics This Week - JULY 17, 2019

[ This post is entirely based on the comics that I read from the current week, not a best of or highlights of the week list. The rest of the stuff I didn't read was either me not being interested in them or not being able to get my hands on them. ]

BATMAN #75
Publisher: DC Comics
Writer: Tom King
Artist: Tony Daniel & Mitch Gerads

Synopsis:
"City of Bane" begins! Bane's minions have moved into Gotham City, taken control and are ruling with an iron fist-including rounding up any villain who refuses to sign onto Bane's program-and Batman is nowhere to be found. At least not the Batman anyone knows. It's like someone has replaced the real Gotham City with a twisted funhouse-mirror version of it. Meanwhile, the real Bruce Wayne is on a spiritual quest to regain his fighting spirit after his showdown with his father in the desert. Can the people of Gotham hold on until their protector is strong enough to come to their rescue? Plus, what does Lex Luthor's scheming mean for Gotham City when Bane and the villains are already in control? This extra-sized anniversary issue kicks off a new multi-part storyline that ties together all the threads of the first 74 issues of Tom King's epic BATMAN run!

My thoughts:
Well, it's finally here. And it is, as we all expected. King tells yet another viewpoint jumping story, as we see the story unfold through the eyes of two separate Batman's. 
The fact that the various villains of Gotham serving as part of the authority on Bane's regime is a fun fact and also is the overall atmosphere all throughout. But, the tale was a bit confusing at times, but that is to be expected as it is coming as a closer to a long run by the author.
The art does satisfyingly convey the mood and is a joy to behold.

Rating:
8.5 out of 10.

AQUAMAN #50
Publisher: DC Comics
Writer: Kelly Sue DeConnick
Artist: Robson Rocha

Synopsis:
As Aquaman settles the Old Gods of Unspoken Water into their new lives in Amnesty Bay, Jackson Hyde, a.k.a. Aqua-lad, seeks out Aquaman to be his new mentor! Back in Atlantis, Mera makes a move that shocks the Widowhood. Meanwhile, Black Manta, recently kicked out of the Legion of Doom, prepares to make his next move against his greatest nemesis...but Lex Luthor is about to make him an offer he can't refuse. Don't miss our landmark 50th issue and the start of a brand-new story!

My thoughts:
This was a joy to read. Loved the humanity of Arthur, as well as the reveal of the simplicity of his life in the Amnesty Bay in the past. Mera has been another strong character all through the series and her portrayal as the queen in the issue is another fun fact.
This seemed much new reader friendly in a way, while also continuing the story told so far.
Hoping for great things from this series in the future as Black Manta returns again at the end.

Rating:
9.5 out of 10.

COLLAPSER #1
Publisher: DC's Young Animal
Writer: Mikey Way, Shaun Simon
Artist: Ilias Kyriazis

Synopsis:
There's a voice in the head of Liam James questioning everything he does-from his job at the nursing home to keeping his relationship with his girlfriend afloat. Liam suffers from anxiety, and the only thing that quiets it is music, which makes a weekly DJ gig his one saving grace. But Liam's life changes forever when he receives a black hole in the mail (yes, you read that right), one that takes up residence in his chest, grants him insane superpowers, turns him into a celebrity and draws him into a cosmic conflict beyond his wildest imagination. Where did this black hole come from? Why Liam? Is power the cure? Or will superstardom turn Liam into a black hole himself? Find out in COLLAPSER, a superhero story that could only come from DC's Young Animal!

My thoughts:
This one has so much going for it. Original concept; truly realistic protagonist with anxiety issues and emotional instability; wacky yet cool art style and an unexpected story that could really go anywhere.
I loved the main character of Liam James, he is so normal and unlike typical superheroes it was quite refreshing reading his story.
Clearly one of the best new ongoing by DC right now. Hoping for something great in the future. 

Rating:
9 out of 10.

USAGI YOJIMBO #2
Publisher: IDW Publishing
Writer & Artist : Stan Sakai

Synopsis:
"Bunraku," Part 2. Strange circumstances continue to surround a travelling puppet show as Usagi becomes embroiled in one of his most eerie adventures yet! Will the aid of a supernatural ally be enough for Usagi to prevent more death? Stan Sakai's long-running epic continues its first thrilling storyline at IDW Publishing! Exciting samurai action, now in color!

My thoughts:
I am really amazed by this. How can a story that is so predictable and so simplistic, can be so enjoyable. I loved every panel of this.
These anthropomorphic characters somehow create a sense of nostalgia reminding me of the days of the classic cartoons/comics of the 90's, when I was a kid.
The drawing, the expressions and the dialogue all create a sense that makes me feel like I am a kid again enjoying the tales of honorable warriors battling evil spirits.
Full marks for bringing back the child in me.

Rating:
9 out of 10.

DAREDEVIL #8
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Writer: Chip Zdarsky
Artist: Lalit Kumar Sharma

Synopsis:
With Daredevil still missing, his shadow looms large over Hell's Kitchen...and ordinary citizens are starting to feel his absence. Detective Cole North may think he's stopped Daredevil, but there are bigger problems coming his way!

My thoughts:
'Daredevil' is seriously one of the best things Marvel is currently publishing.
While this issue might not be as good as the previous ones, I really loved Matt's banter with the mafia family as they each tried to assert their views on justice (although it dragged a bit too much).
But, frankly, the best thing about this issue was the bit with Kingpin, as we get to see yet another aspect of the psychology of this amazing character.
This still keeps me guessing where the story would be going next.

Rating:
8 out of 10.

[PS: I really have so less time to read comics currently, and I tried to review mostly the stuff I really liked this week. ]

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