Graphic Novel Review - Star Wars: Captain Phasma

Name: Star Wars: Captain Phasma

Published by: Marvel Comics 

Writter: Kelly Thompson 

Artist: Marco Checcheto

Colorist: Andres Mossa

Letter: VC's Clayton Cowles 

One of the minor characters that I was intrigued by in 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' was the character of Captain Phasma. I found here design quite unique and interesting, and was kind of disappointed by her fate towards the end. This story picks up after where we left her in the movie moving her part of the plot forward and the art by Marco Checcheto was as delightful as ever. 

The story starts with Captain Phasma, just after where we left him in the movie, follows him as he erases the evidence of his involvement in the destruction of Starkiller base and his pursuit of the only one who is aware of this secret. This 4 part mini-series introduces a few new characters and a new planet with some backstory. 

While the story wasn't particularly bad, the story of the planet and its occupants wasn't much interesting. I would have liked to learn more about the past of Captain Phasma rather than this, which was only barely hinted at. The main focus is on the present and the ruthless intensity of Phasma to tie up loose ends to ensure her own survival. 

I have become a fan of Marco Checcheto's art in the recent months, and once again he delivers with delightful precision. His beautifully detailed drawing of the spaceships and the environment is complemented adequately by the equally capable Andres Mossa. I also liked Checcheto's designs for the various inhabitants of the planet Luprora. Once again, this artist duo is impeccable in their execution and their world of Star Wars is a joy to behold. 

Frankly, I wanted to give this collection a lower score, but on a second thought I did enjoy the story and was quite invested in the character of Captain Phasma throughout her struggles. And the drawing deserves full marks. So I decided to give this 4 out of 5 stars in the end. 

Graphic Novel Review - Star Wars: Shattered Empire

Name: Star Wars: Shattered Empire 

Published by: Marvel Comics

Writer: Greg Rucka

Artists: Marco Checcheto, Angel Unzueta and Emilio Laiso

Colorist: Andres Mossa

Letter: VC's Joe Caramagna 

I picked this up because what was advertised about this miniseries, I wanted to find out what happened just after 'Return of the Jedi' and based on the cover and my previous experience with Marco Checcheto I was quite enthusiastic about how he would draw this iconic characters and action scenes. I got almost exactly what I was expecting. 

The main viewpoint character is Shara Bay, the mother of Poe Dameron, from the sequel trilogy. The stories present in the main four issues are kind of like anthologies, tales occurring just after the final battle of the third movie and the week following it, she interacts with the trio of heroes from the movie with cameos from other beloved characters. 

There never is any real danger or momentum in the stories presented here, and dialogues are very cheesy quite often. At times, this almost felt like deliberate and cheap attempt at introducing Dameron's parents in the main story chronologically without adding much to the plot other than establishing that the battle with the Empire is not over yet. 

But the art by Marco Checcheto is even better than I expected. His brilliant drawings of these iconic characters and visually astounding action sequences is bound to create nostalgia in the fans of this franchise. With his truly remarkable drawing of the epic Star Wars universe, it was almost impossible to stop from keep on turning the pages just to watch the brilliance unfold. If this was solely based on art, I would have given this full marks for sure. 

The extra two issues featured here are, Mark Waid's Princess Leia #1 and Star Wars (1977) #1. I didn't really care much for the first one, as the story was very bland, and the drawing of the main two characters was too similar. The second issue is the start of Marvel’s adaptation of the original movie, which was some nostalgic fun, despite having some peculiar drawing. 

Overall, I'll give this one, 3.5 out of 5 stars. 

New Comic Review - Detective Comics #1063

Name: Detective Comics #1063

Published by: DC comics

Writers: Ram V and Simon Spurrier

Artists: Rafael Albuquerque and Dani

Colorist: Dave Stewart

Letterers: Ariana Maher and Steve Wands

The second 'Detective Comics' issue of Ram V is more of a mixed bag compared to the incredible first one. While he deepens his gothic mystery and cosmic horror angles of the story, his prose seems to slow down a bit too much and lacks the action and aggressive momentum that is needed in an enjoyable Batman comic. 

The story begins with Batman having an enquiring and interesting conversation with Harvey Dent, then we get some more ominous appearances from the new villainous characters while Bruce continues his investigations to uncover the mystery behind the ancient music box. The dialogue is as serious and moody as before (too much emphasis on Bruce getting old though). The prose is a bit too dense at times and the pace seemed to be deliberately slowed a bit too much too. 

The art is as exquisite as before, with brilliant facial expressions and masterful and clever use of colors by Dave Stewart. But the lack of action sequences seemed to once again dimmed my enjoyment a bit as I think the artist duo could have worked wonders there. 

The side story focusing on Jim Gordon by Spurrier manages to deliver as the first issue, taking us deeper into the mystery and keeping us curious about how the last part might tie everything up. The art by Dani here brilliantly complements the atmosphere and strengthens the storytelling. 

I will give this 3.5 out of 5 stars. Hopefully the story picks up pace in the next few issues. 

New Comic Review - Amazing Spider-Man #8

Name: Amazing Spider-Man #8

Published by: Marvel comics

Writter: Zeb Wells

Artists: John Romita Jr., Scott Hanna

Colorists: Marcio Menyz

Letterer: Joe Caramagna

The new series of 'Amazing Spider-Man' seems to have finally found its rhythm into its eighth issue. It is a tightly focused issue with visually engrossing action and emotionally charged dialogue. While I am not entirely sure what the future might be like for this series, but I definitely liked this issue.

This one starts from where the 7th issue ended, as Spider-Man continues his fight against vulture, trying to outwit the villain, despite his momentary disadvantage, while trying desperately not to be killed. The most of the issue is a brutal and visceral battle scene, in between which Peter seeks help from a very unlikely place. The issue ends with a twist ending that has been foreshadowed in the last few issues. 

The art by John Romita Jr. is as good as ever. His ability to depict emotions and desperation with his unorthodox style of drawing characters adds to the drama of the story in a big way. And his delightful drawing with excellent lettering by Joe Caramagna adds to the overall savageness of the battle. 

In my opinion, this might be the best issue of this run of ASM, if not the best Spider-Man issue of the year so far. But due to next two issues being kind of tie-ins to the bigger Marvel universe I am not too optimistic for the future, as I would have liked the story to be more focused on these characters. Let's just hope the creative duo doesn't drop the ball again just after they seemed to have found their groove. 

Nonetheless, this issue gets a well deserved 4.5 out of 5 stars. 

New Comic Review - Star Wars: Hyperspace Stories #1

Name: Star Wars: Hyperspace Stories #1

Published by: Dark Horse Comics 

Writer: Amanda Deibert

Artist: Lucas Marangon

Colorist: Michael Atiyah

Letters: Comicraft’s Tyler Smith and Jimmy Betancourt

Well, I didn't know this was coming out this week. Before yesterday I wasn't even aware that 'Dark Horse' has gained the rights to publish Star Wars comics again. Although I was a bit sceptical before picking this up, the first issue of this new series turned out to be quite a pleasant surprise.

This story takes place sometime during the Clone Wars and features all the main trio of characters from the prequel trilogy as they are one rescue mission. Amanda Deibert seems to have a good understanding of these characters and she even includes some cameos and one of the fan favorite villain from the era.

The most interesting part is that this is 'done in one' all-ages adventure. In this age of multi issue and multi series stories, this feels quite refreshing. And the author manages to flesh out the story quite well in just one issue. I really loved the emotional side story of the Wookiee family.

Lucas has quite a unique style in his art. The drawing seems like a mash up between 2D cartoons and mangas. His unique take on this iconic characters were quite eye catching, although it took out some of the characteristic flashiness out of the action sequences at times.

I wish this issue had at least a small paragraph on the credits page detailing when it takes place regarding the Star Wars timeline. That would have made this a bit more newbie friendly, then again, not many people who is not an invested Star Wars fan will pick this up.

All in all, this gets 4 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Daredevil #2

Name: Daredevil #2

Published by: Marvel comics

Writter: Chip Zdarsky, Ann Nocenti, Chris Giarrusso 

Artist: Marco Checchetto, Rafael De Latorre, Alex Maleev, Paul Azaceta, Phil Noto, Chris Samnee, Klaus Janson, Mike Hawthorne, John Romita Jr., Scott Hanna, Chip Zdarsky, Chris Giarrusso 

Colorist: Matthew Wilson

Letterer: VC's Clayton Cowles 

Daredevil #2 is yet another chapter in Murdock's life where Zdarsky uses his unique style of storytelling to incorporate new elements into the Daredevil mythos. The prose is just as emotional and poignant as it has ever been with beautiful drawing by Checcheto and a team of brilliant artists augmented by powerful coloring from Matthew Wilson. 

The second (or 650th) issue of Daredevil is certainly not what I expected it to be. Unlike many anniversary issues, it doesn't showcase the supporting cast and the signature rogues gallery of the hero (just recently ASM #900 pulled this off). Rather, it continues from the last issue, progressing the plot further, introduces a new antagonist and uses the talent of the plethora of great artists on offer to introduce said character methodically into Matt's past adventures. 

The art in this issue is truly phenomenal. While the single pages that glimpsed the past by previous artists were a welcome addition and eye catching indeed, I liked the drawing by Checcheto and Wilson detailing the present even more. The fist fight in the rain, the use of darker colors to implement the mood; and the anguish, confusion and desperation in Matt's face without even revealing his eyes, all these are just some of the highlights of their excellent dual performance.

Ann Nocenti is one of my all time favourite Daredevil writers, and her 4 page short is as characteristic in style as one expects of her. I sometimes wish that she would return to write some issues in the future, although that seems very unlikely. The one page mini by Chris Giarrusso is also quite funny.

The absence of Elektra on such a landmark issue was a negative for me, cause I think she has become an integral part of Daredevil. I also found the introduction of the new antagonist into such pivotal moments from Matt's past a bit too much at times.

But, Zdarsky certainly keeps the ball rolling, and his current run continues to be one of the best comics being published at the moment. 

4 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Predator #1

Name: Predator #1

Published by: Marvel comics

Writter: Ed Brisson

Artists: Kev Walker

Colorists: Frank D'Armata

Letterer: Clayton Cowles 

While the story of revenge for having your loved ones killed isn't definitely something new, Ed Brisson did reverse the role of the predator and prey to give the story a new twist with some bombastic art to boot. And this is a high time for the franchise with the new movie being a hit and Marvel starting to publish new comics. 

This first issue introduces us to the human protagonist, who might remind readers a bit of 'Naru' from 'Prey', but despite having the quite done and dusted background of being motivated by revenge her character was fleshed out quite methodically and her ships AI has its unique attitudes to be quite likeable. 

This issue had a fair bit of action sequences which were drawn with jubilant style and colors, giving a sense of action and urgency. The ship designs were quite delightful and the author did try to give us a bit of information about the activities of the Predators as a race of hunters. But I myself expected some more actions, specially knowing about the history of the franchise. 

Overall, any reader will fill invested in Theta after learning of her past and her mission and her dire predicaments after the ending of this issue. 

This one gets, 3.5 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Amazing Spider-Man #7

Name: Amazing Spider-Man #7

Published by: Marvel comics

Writter: Zeb Wells

Artists: John Romita Jr., Scott Hanna

Colorists: Marcio Menyz

Letterer: Joe Caramagna

After the average first 5 issues of the new ASM on-going, and the quite enjoyable 900th issue, I wasn't really sure what to expect from this issue, which is supposed to begin a new story arc. While once again, I was impressed with the art; the story, despite obvious improvements still didn't reach the height I was expecting from it.

The story opens with introducing us to the not so new villain of this arc, Vulture, while giving us an emotional sequence to get behind the reason of why wants to kill Spider-Man this time. Then story focuses on Peter and things kinda slow down as we learn a bit more about why everyone is mad at him (these slow expositions are killing the mood for me). Then comes the end with a one on one battle between Spidey and the Vulture, which was the best scene of the issue.

The art is once again the main star, as Romita Jr. uses his unique style to depict emotions brilliantly and enriches the story very convincingly. His unorthodox facial expressions work wonders for Norman and Adrian Toomes to convey their guilt and despair quite effectively.

Despite being annoyed with the slow progress of the overarching plot and continues uncharacteristic handling of some of the characters (specially MJ) I am still intrigued to find out what happens in the next issue and that is always a positive point.

I will give this 3.5 out of 5 stars (full marks to the artists and colorist to be specific). 

New Comic Review - Aquaman: Andromeda #2

Name: Aquaman: Andromeda #2

Published by: DC comics

Writter: Ram V

Artist: Christian Ward

Letterer: Aditya Bidikar 

This issue starts from where the last one left off; as we slowly delve into the mystery at Point Nemo, Aquaman and Black Manta both get more page time and the gorgeous art by Christian Ward makes us re-examine each and every panel as we think we might have missed some minute yet exquisite detail. 

This time, Ram V takes us deeper into the past and the psyche of the crew of Andromeda as the overall sense of dread grows. Aquaman has more dialogue and seems even more broody and powerful than before. Manta appears only in a few pages, but steals the show yet again by being dark and ominous. We get more hints regarding the origin and nature of the craft, but much is left for the next issue to explore and explain. 

The art by Christian Ward needs to be seen to be truly appreciated. His unique use of colors adds to the depth of the experience by creating a sense of ominous and foreboding. Each and every page is a delight for the eyes and begs for re-evaluation quite often. 

My only gripe is that the author spends too much time on the crew of Andromeda leaving little room for Aquaman and Manta. Their story is kind of slow at times and seems to distract from the sense of cosmic horror and overall enjoyment. 

This gets, 4 out of 5 stars. 

New Comic Review - Batman #126

Name: Batman #126

Published by: DC comics

Writter: Chip Zdarsky

Artists: Jorge Jimenez, Belén Ortega

Colorists: Tomeu Morey, Luis Guerrero

Letterer: Clayton Cowles

It is not often these days that I find myself engrossed in an issue of comics so much that I have to finish in one sitting. Batman #126 by Zdarsky and Jimenez is such a brilliant issue that caused this rare incident. The thoughtful storytelling and delightful art kept me on the edge of my seat till the last page. 

The issue opens with Batman dealing with the consequences of the events of the last issue while thinking about how lucky he is to have other members of the bat family by his side and about after effect of Penguin's death, when all of a sudden Failsafe attacks and the action begins. Then its non-stop action till the last few pages and we are left with a surprising cliffhanger that is sure to keep everyone talking till the issue next month. 

The drawing by Jorge Jimenez is so good this time that it takes center stage for most of the issue. His dynamic drawing strengthened by the magnificent colors of Tomeu Morey might have created the best action sequences in a Batman comic book for the past few years. The fight between Failsafe and the bat family is depicted almost to the point perfection with the feeling of almost being able to feel the movement and the visceral impact of the blows. 

It felt really great to see almost every member of the bat family in action and the entry by Nightwing was spectacular. Jimenez really drew the vehicular movements and the explosions quite brilliantly. 

My only two gripes with the issue are; number one, during the first interaction between Bruce and Tim the dialogues and action by Tim felt really out of character (it seems closer to how Damian might behave), and, number two, in  the action bits the inner monologue by Bruce seems a bit unnecessary and overwritten. These minor issues don't ruin anything from the experience at all, but it just makes these near perfect issue miss out on being a masterpiece.  

The backup (also written by Chip Zdarsky), featuring Catwoman tries to find the heirs of the Penguin, also gets a twist in the plot, as we see the children of Penguin being murdered by a mystery assailant as Selina tries to find out who the killer is. The story is quite enjoyable in its own write and complements the main story by dealing with the consequences of Cobblepot's death. 

Despite the few issues I had with this one, Zdarsky and Jimenez's Batman is most definitely one of the best comics currently being published by DC. And after that cliffhanger, I just wish it came out at least twice a month if not weekly. 

My score, 4.5 out of 5 stars. 

Graphic Novel Review - Jonah Hex: Welcome to Paradise

Name: Jonah Hex: Welcome to Paradise

Published by: DC Comics 

Writers: John Albano, Michael Fleisher

Artists: Tony DeZuniga, Doug Wildey, Noly Palanigan, George Moliterni, José Luis García-López

I have experience of reading some western novels from my childhood, but never really got into western comics much. I had my knowledge of Jonah Hex from seeing the movie, which I didn't like much. My experience with this introductory volume of Jonah Hex is almost exactly as I expected it to be. 

While this had some cool parts it also was a bit boring at times. I began to appreciate the protagonist Jonah Hex after I got his backstory in the later half of the story, as a matter of fact the second half of the story was more entertaining and engrossing with its story arc and interesting supporting characters.

The art was kinda reverse in this regard, as I found the art by Tony DeZuniga in the first 4 stories to be the best of the bunch and the in last few issues the art seemed a bit rough for my liking.

On the whole I am glad I picked up this collection of classic Jonah Hex tales, but I just wish they were a bit more consistent and had more even art.

3 out of 5 stars from me.