Retro Comic Review - Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1 #26

Name: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1 #26

Published by: Mirage Comics

Writer & Artist: Rick Veitch 

Letterer: Gary Fields

The 'River Saga' ends with style, providing an exciting issue with a satisfying final battle and closure for all the relevant characters. The main villain behind the powerful and brutal Bloodsucker turns out to be a weird one, as per the rule in TMNT, who gets defeated in an epic way, leaving us wondering what fun could have been had if not for the rights issue.

The story progresses smoothly unlike the second issue and Veitch has gotten the hang of characterizing the turtles perfectly this time and conflict is told through his unique and weird style, giving some memorable moments well after you have finished.

The art is as good as ever; there are some brilliant moments like the psychic punch and Raphael's triumphant return that are bound to stay with you if you are a turtles fan. 

All in all, this one closes the story with a massive sense of accomplishment and a lingering desire of seeing Bloodsucker return to wreak havoc once again.

A whooping 4.5 out of 5 stars from me.

Retro Comic Review - Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1 #25

Name: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1 #25

Published by: Mirage Comics

Writer & Artist: Rick Veitch 

Letterer: Steve Lavigne

The second issue of the 'River Saga' may be the weakest of the trilogy, but it is still way better than most other issues of the guest era. The story takes a new direction with the introduction of new characters and new story elements, keeping the reader guessing as to where the story is heading next.

The turtles get pulled into an environmental subplot, involving a greedy corporation and corrupted authority, and the pursuer for the Bloodsucker takes a back seat. But the ecologically motivated semi-conflict does end in this single issue as the trio restarts their quest with the help of a new ally.

Despite the enjoyable premise and execution, the new characters are quite generic and stereotypical in their depiction, and the dialogue at times contains some uninspired puns. And the story might have been polished a bit to make the issue even more powerful and enigmatic.

As like the previous issue, the art is quite detailed and engrossing. Once again, the villainous design of Bloodsucker was the highlight of the character's work.

This gets 3.5 stars out of 5 stars from me.

 

Retro Comic Review - Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1 #24

Name: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1 #24

Published by: Mirage Comics

Writer & Artist: Rick Veitch 

Letterer: Steve Lavigne 

The notorious 'guest era' in Mirage comics' original TMNT is known mostly for its inconsistency. These issues are often filled with pure randomness, awkward humor, and sheer mediocrity. But there are also some issues that are still regarded by some fans very highly even these days.

Issues 24-26 are fondly remembered by most fans as 'The River Saga' and the first issue brilliantly sets up the story. We get introduced to how Veitch characterizes the Turtles and their companions, get acquainted with his unique style of storytelling and also get our first glimpses of the main villain, who might be one of the best antagonists of this guest era if not the best.

The art is also quite beautiful, with detailed character works and poignant facial expressions. The first reveal of the humanoid depiction of the antagonist is master class of horror storytelling that I keep remembering quite often when I think of this arc.

There are a few gripes regarding how the characters speak at times or some unorthodox clothing choices not in touch with the general personalities, but these are things that can be easily overlooked based on the overall merit of the plot.

I'll give this a well-deserved 4 out of 5 stars.

Graphic Novel Review - Star Wars: Yoda

Name: Star Wars: Yoda 

Published by: Marvel Comics

Writers: Cavan Scott, Jody Houser & Marc Guggenheim 

Artists: Nico Leon, Luke Ross, Alessandro Miracolo & Ibraim Roberson

Colorists: Photobunker's Dono- Sánchez-Almara, Nolan Woodard, Annalisa Leoni & Neeraj Menon

Letterer: VC's Joe Caramagna

I was a bit sceptical about picking up this one. Yoda is a huge brand name for the Star Wars franchise, anything with his name usually results in quick and sure sells, so I thought there might not be any worthwhile substance in this. Despite my reservations, I decided to finally check this out based on the reviews on the internet and also as part of timeline wise read-through.

There are a total of three stories here featuring different time periods throughout the long lifespan of Yoda's life, all culminating in a brilliantly executed last issue. The first story occurs on a previously unknown planet inhabited by two new species, who are at odds with each other and the author slowly explores the reality of the situation. 

The second one seemed the weakest to me despite having one of my favorite characters, Dooku. The exploration of the enmity between Trandoshan's and Wookiee's and the unreliability and maddening effect of prophesies was the main focus.

The third story occurs during the time of another of my favorite time periods 'The Clone Wars' and also featured maybe my favorite Star Wars villains General Grievous, so obviously I enjoyed it.

The art was quite gorgeous throughout, with detailed backgrounds and appropriate facial reconstructions and expressions. The action sequences were also done quite competently.

Overall score - 4.5 out of 5 stars. And I do hope other adventures from Yoda's lifespan will be explored in this format, as there is vast scope for experimentation. 

Graphic Novel Review - Hyperspace Stories: Qui-Gon

Name: Star Wars Hyperspace Stories: Qui-Gon 

Published by: Dark Horse Comics

Writer: George Mann

Artists: Andrea Mutti, Gigi Baldassini

Colorist: Vladimir Popov

Letterer: Comicraft's Tyler Smith and Jimmy Betancourt

The new line of character centric 'Hyperspace Stories' initiative truly seems like a promising initiative. It is a great scope to tell fun stories featuring these beloved characters occurring throughout the vast timespan of the franchise. And the first entry is quite enjoyable in a simplistic yet poignant way.

The story is placed sometime before 'The Phantom Menace', while also incorporating a glimpse into Qui-Gon Jinn's time as a Padawan. The characterization was spot on and the cameo by Dooku was a nice delight.

It was nice to have the story focus on the greyer side of the force rather than a straightforward concept of light vs dark. I really liked the interesting yet less known cult that was a part of the story. The interesting story did make up for the relative scarcity of action.

The art was okay, but nothing extraordinary barring a few detailed backgrounds. I would have liked if the art was a bit more eye-catching.

This gets 4 out of 5 stars from me mostly based on the interesting story.

Graphic Novel Review - Aquaman: A Celebration of 75 Years

Name: Aquaman: A Celebration of 75 Years

Published by: DC comics

Writters: Various

Artists: Various 

When considered as a sampler or entry point for new readers into the world of Aquaman, this collection does a fine job. But when thinking of this as a collectable item for seasoned reader it does fall a bit short as it misses some of the classic or legendary issues.

Readers will mostly get an introductory idea about the characters and setting of the world of Aquaman and some information regarding some of the noteworthy runs featuring Arthur. Some of the art from the Golden, Silver, and Bronze Age  is quite charming and beautiful. And the primers from the modern comics also pique interest regarding these storylines.

I would have loved to read or experience some of the other specific legendary issues, like silver age introduction of Thanatos or some of the other extravagant Peter David issues beside the mid blowing 'Single Wet Female'.

Overall score - 3.5 stars from me, mostly due to some unfortunate omissions.

Retro Comic Review - Gizmo and the Fugitoid #2

Name: Gizmo and the Fugitoid #2

Published by: Mirage Comics

Writer: Peter Laird and Michael Dooney 

Artist: Michael Dooney 

Letterer: Steve Lavigne 

The second issue picks up just where the first one left off. We find our heroes prisoners of the Triceratons and trying to figure out a way to get out this prickly in one piece.

The story suffers a bit with some unlikely coincidences as the author tries to finish everything in this issue and the Triceratons come out a bit out of character because of this. 

Although the art is as good as ever, even better than the first at times with the detailed spaceships and background work. Throughout the whole two issue series, I kept coming back to back pages just to goggle at the detailed art.

This gets another nostalgic 4 out of 5 stars. 

Retro Comic Review - Gizmo and the Fugitoid #1

Name: Gizmo and the Fugitoid #1

Published by: Mirage Comics

Writer: Peter Laird and Michael Dooney 

Artist: Michael Dooney 

Letterer: Steve Lavigne 

I have been checking out the original Mirage comics and came upon this 2 issue mini-series. Initially I was a bit sceptical about checking this out as these didn't feature the turtles at all and although I knew Fugitoid and I had no idea about who this Gizmo guy was. I am glad I decided to check this out.

The first issue does a fine job of introducing us to the main characters, the humourous dialogues of Gizmo and Fluffy was quite enjoyable and I really did feel for the strange situation Fugitoid was in.

The story was fast paced and enjoyable, but the thing I really liked was the detailed art, once again one of the most attractive things of these old Mirage black and white issues. And it also ended in a cliffhanger throwing one of my favorite extraterrestrial factions into the mix, great stuff so far.

4 out of 5 stars from me.

Graphic Novel Review - All Against All

Name: All Against All Vol. 1

Published by: Image Comics

Writer: Alex Paknadel

Artist: Casper Wijngaard

Colorist: Hasan Otsmane-Elhaou

This was a fun mini-series with a unique science fiction concept detailing the story of a group of parasitic aliens trying to delve into the mystery of the destructive nature of humanity on the backdrop of their own ongoing war. 

Alex Paknadel isn't an author that I was familiar with so I came into this without expecting anything, but his style was quite enjoyable. I liked his use of different viewpoint characters while trying to establish the world building through their perspectives rather than info dump. The story was an interesting one with some messages regarding the consequence of violence and war. 

The artist Caspar Wijngaard is also someone new for me, and I am definitely going to be on the lookout for his work in the future after my first exposure. His unique and unorthodox character and background designs, and masterful depiction of the action sequences were really able to drive home the visceral nature of the story. 

Interesting concept, fresh storytelling and vividly imaginative drawing kept me turning the pages rather quickly on this one as I kept intrigued about the twist to come. 4 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Alligator Loki #1

Name: Alligator Loki #1

Published by: Marvel Comics

Writer: Alyssa Wong

Artist: Bob Quinn

Colorist: Pete Pantazis

Well, who didn't like Alligator Loki when he was introduced in the Loki tv series. I sure did, and when I saw his infinity comic being published I was waiting for to check it out when it was to be collected as a normal issue. And, it really delivers on its promises quite commendably. 

The short strip like dialogue less stories featuring the notorious Alligator features cameos from characters from all over the Marvel universe with its mischievous fun and homages to popular memes are really something to be experienced. 

Bob Quinn does an excellent job with his exuberant art which compliments Wongs wonderful sense of humor quite nicely. As I found out this is only the compilation of season one of the series. I for one will be eagerly waiting for future adventures of this unorthodox and wicked god of mischief. 

4 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Six 001 - The Tanque Verde Massacre

Name: Six 001 - The Tanque Verde Massacre

Published by: Europe Comics

Writer: Philippe Pelaez

Artist: Javier Casado

Translator: Dan Christensen

Editing: Christopher Bradley

Letterer: Cromatik Ltd. 

My first experience with Europe Comics was quite an enjoyable one. This issue of western comics made me nostalgic about my childhood of reading translated westerns, often barely understanding some of the terminology but thoroughly enjoying the machismo, action and most of all the atmosphere. This one might be very generic to serious readers of western, to a casual reader of the genre like me, this hits all the sweet spots and kept me wanting more. 

The first issue mostly introduces the Six characters mentioned in the name of the story. We get information regarding some of the characters, while a few remain without much back story. We get introduced to the different factions of villains and also learn about the quest of the group while they begin their journey. 

Despite being quite generic, the characters are quite likeable and almost felt like getting reacquainted with old friends to me and I am already dreading the fact that some of the six will eventually die by the end. I really liked the dynamic between the deserter and the Indian quite a lot. The mysterious narrator of the story also adds another layer of intrigue for readers. 

The art is detailed, has appropriate facial expressions and creates the atmosphere quite nicely. The translation is also flawless never hampering the enjoyment at all. 

I really got immersed in this one despite understanding this might be generic for readers of the genre, but what more can be asked of a good old fashioned western tale?

I will give this one 4 out of 5 stars from me. 

Graphic Novel Review - Planet of the Apes Archive Vol. 1

Name: Planet of the Apes Archive Vol. 1: Terror on the Planet of the Apes

Published by: BOOM! Studios 

Writer: Doug Moench

Artists: Mike Ploog, Frank Chiaramonte, Tom Sutton, Herb Trimpe, Virgil Redondo

Let me start by saying that I am a relatively new Apes fan. Despite watching the original movie as a kid and the reboot as a teenager I was never much invested previously, which might have been due to the fact that I wasn't never really aware of the racial and political issues that this franchise tried to focus upon. But after quite recently rewatching the first movie and following up with watching (for the first time!) the next four I became quite enamoured. 

As I began to gradually delve deeper into the tie-in stuff, I decided to check out the various comics from different publishers. And these archives published by BOOM! Studios seemed a great way to read the older Marvel stuff in an organized way. 

The first volume of this archive series contains an original storyline set in the Planet of the apes depicting an action packed tale of two friends, a human and an ape going through almost limitless obstacles while re-exploring their friendship. Despite losing momentum towards the end and not having a proper ending, 'Terror on the Planet of the Apes' is an action packed journey that manages to combine the epic tone of the planet of the apes with the weirdness inherent to the comics as a medium. 

The story has many interesting and varied characters. Although the protagonist Jason and his friend Alex and the main antagonist Brutus might seem rather one dimensional caricatures; the likes of Gunsmith Julius, Steely Dan, Saraband, Lightsmith and a myriad of interesting villains  steal the show with their uniqueness. 

Doug Moench really knows how to spin a tale to keep his readers guessing what new perils might come next for our heroes and what new fascinating bits of weird and unorthodox locale or creatures we might experience next. And especially during the first half each chapter adds further layers of world-building to keep readers excited to keep on turning the pages. 

The first nine chapters are drawn by Mike Ploog, and his drawing is just something that is a pure joy to experience. The level of detail in his black and white pages kept me engrossed and returning for stuff I might have missed. The last six chapters are also well drawn and eye catching, but lack Ploogs artistic brilliance and pales a bit in comparison. 

Overall, the merits far outweigh the minor lacks in this story and the introduction and ending by the Apes expert 'Rich Handley' also add a sense of perspective to this historic piece of work. 

This gets 4.5 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Venom #20

Name: Venom #20

Published by: Marvel comics

Writer: Al Ewing 

Artists: Cafu

Colorist: Frank D'Armata

Letterer: VC's Clayton Cowles  

Every time that I think that maybe this time Ewing will let the ball drop, making the pace too slow to make it drag or make the story too convoluted to make me decide it's just too difficult to follow each month, he delivers such a brilliant piece of curveball to keep me interested in the future of his characters. 

This time the story focuses on Eddie Brock as he returns to wreck havoc in a new style. He goes on a road trip to restart the battle he left off. The unique way of storytelling by Al Ewing once again keeps the readers guessing what to expect in the future while keeping the angles fresh for the future of the series. 

The art and coloring seems a notch higher in quality compared to the past few issues this time. The characters are drawn quite detailed and the action scenes seem to jump out of the pages. This really added much to the overall quality of the end product as well as the level of entertainment . 

A near perfect issue in terms of enjoyment, this gets 4.5 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Cyborg #1

Name: Cyborg #1

Published by: DC comics

Writer: Morgan Hampton

Artist: Tom Raney

Colorist: Michael Atiyeh

Letterer: Rob Leigh

Like most people out there, my introduction to Cyborg's backstory was mainly through the 'Justice League' movie. And my exposure to him was through that and the 'Doom Patrol' show and part of events or team comics that I read. But I am sure glad that I decided to check out this new ongoing featuring Victor as it seems like the start of something quite promising. 

The story in itself is a great place for new readers to jump into the story of Cyborg. It uses various ways to inform readers the origin of Victor Stone, of his relation with his father and the Titans. While the author also establishes the upcoming threats and plot devices for our protagonist mostly sacrificing action bits rather focusing on establishing the plot threads. 

In the beginning I was quite sceptical about the drawing of the issue, but Raney with his unorthodox art style seems to work quite interestingly with Atiyeh's colorful expressiveness. The drawing is quite attractive overall with its unique nuances. 

I do wish more action in the future, but the execution so far with the interesting twist on the last page left me genuinely intrigued and hopeful for the future. 

This gets 4 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Venom #17

Name: Venom #17

Published by: Marvel comics

Writer: Al Ewing 

Artists: Cafu

Colorist: Frank D'Armata

Letterer: VC's Clayton Cowles 

After the events of 'Dark Web', Eddie Brock is left as a shadow of his former self with his memories in a jumble and his rage prevailing as he is stuck as Bedlam after being used as a pawn in the scheme by Madelyne Pryor and Ben Reilly. 

This issue tells a somewhat convoluted tale of Eddie's struggles both physical and psychological, and does it with some style. The fight scene with Darkoth was quite viscerally enjoyable and brilliantly drawn by Cafu. Despite being at times confusing, this type of storytelling by Ewing is really appreciated if the readers are already invested in the main character. 

To be honest, I was a bit sceptical with Venom's integration into the 'Dark Web' event but Ewing really did use the opportunity quite ingeniously leaving me quite optimistic as a reader for the future of the series. 

4 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Star Wars: The High Republic #2

Name: Star Wars: The High Republic #2

Published by: Marvel comics

Writer: Cavan Scott

Artists: Ario Anindito, Mark Morales

Colorist: Frank William

Letterer: VC's Ariana Maher

The pace slows down quite significantly in the second issue of the new High Republic series, as the author tries to set up his team of heroes while introducing readers to some cameos by other characters featured in the works of the other creators. 

Vildar Mac continues his search for his mysterious assailant along with his companion and we get to learn more about the assailant this time. While this issue lacks action compared to the last one, it does end with a cliffhanger that is sure to keep fans of the franchise for the future of the series. 

The art is as strong as last time and it was great to see the landscapes of the fabled Jedha and the various species and races represented on the moon. The depiction of the characters from other creators as cameos was a fine additional enjoyment factor as well. 

All in all, this one lacked the spark and pace of the first issue, but still was certainly enjoyable. I will give this 3.5 out of 5 stars.

New Comic Review - Predator #4

Name: Predator #4

Published by: Marvel comics

Writter: Ed Brisson

Artists: Kev Walker

Colorists: Frank D'Armata

Letterer: Clayton Cowles 

The new Predator mini-series have gone past its halfway mark, but the author managed to keep the story flowing despite it starting to become a bit predictable. The beautiful drawing also emphasizes this action packed issue to keep fans of the franchise enticed enough for the future. 

This issue focuses more on action compared to the past few, but tries to show more flashy armors and designs rather than focus on visceral battle scene which is saved for the last few pages and tries to introduce a new angle close to the end. 

We get to learn more about the situation Theta is in as our protagonist tries to survive being pursued by more than one Predators. The battle gets brutal pretty soon and readers are kept wondering how this confrontation might resolve. 

The drawing by Kev Walker seems to very well suited for the futuristic action scenes and his take on the beloved Predator armors are very eye catching and detailed.

Despite having quite a few positive, some of its issues do hold this issue back somewhat. All in all, this one gets 3.5 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Batman #129

Name: Batman #129

Published by: DC comics

Writter: Chip Zdarsky

Artists: Jorge Jimenez, Leonardo Romero 

Colorists: Tomeu Morey, Jordie Bellaire

Letterer: Clayton Cowles

Zdarsky keeps his Batman run as tight and entertaining as ever in this issue, as we experience the mental and physical chase game that continues between Batman and his creation. The tension keeps building throughout the issue and culminates in an ending, that is sure to keep readers shivering with chills (pun intended) till the next outing. 

It begins with Failsafe figuring out the hiding place of Bruce and then the rest of the issue deals with the two of them trying to outmaneuver each other as Failsafe continues his relentless pursuit to kill Batman. And the ending once again will leave readers in a quite a predicament as it did to our hero. 

The art team once again delivered some fascinating action scenes. I really loved Jimenez's drawings of Aquaman in this one and his facial expressions seem to be getting better as well. 

The side story featuring the Joker detailing the adventures of the early days of Zurr-En-Arrh gets more interesting this time with duality and moral struggles of being a vigilante who has to deal with psychopathic killers and once more I was left wondering how this might tie into the main story in the future. 

Overall, another great issue, another 4.5 stars out of 5 from me. 

New Comic Review - Detective Comics #1065

Name: Detective Comics #1065

Published by: DC comics

Writers: Ram V and Simon Spurrier

Artists: Rafael Albuquerque and Hayden Sherman

Colorist: Dave Stewart and Nick Filardi

Letterers: Ariana Maher and Steve Wands

Ram V and Rafael Albuquerque seem to have finally reached the level of excellence they are aiming for this time. Coming in after reading their first three issues, the puzzle starts to fall in the right places slowly on this one. And the experience is like a satisfying sense of understanding and appreciation for any reader who was observant from the beginning. 

The Orghams have finally arrived in Gotham with style, and all the players who are affected by their presence and machinations seem to take notice and all the little character arcs appear to be shifting in new directions. Even the side story featuring James Gordon seems to come into play as Batman delves deeper into despair. 

The drawing by Albuquerque is even better than before and his unique use of shades and shadows accompanied by the captivating use of black and reds to enhance the mood by Dave Stewart does wonders here. You can almost feel the chill in your bones as you go down deeper and deeper with Bruce. 

This issue was a pure joy and a serious statement from the creative team, claiming their rightful place at the top as the people who deserve to work on the dark knight. Hoping for the series to keep on delivering on this level from now on. 

The side story by Simon Spurrier and Hayden Sherman stars a new three parter, delving deeper into the psyche of Harvey Dent. I am quite curious to find out how this ties up with the overall plot. 

This gets a well deserved 4.5 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Predator #3

Name: Predator #3

Published by: Marvel comics

Writter: Ed Brisson

Artists: Kev Walker

Colorists: Frank D'Armata

Letterer: Clayton Cowles 

The third issue of the new Predator comics starts with the fight that was expected based on the ending of the last issue. And afterwards, the mystery starts to unravel about the nature of the Predators and about how they are trying to deal with the situation of the protagonist Theta. 

The issue didn't really deliver the action I was hoping for, but it did expand on the plotline and gave some more exposition upon the past and implications for the future of Theta. And ended on a note promising more action on the upcoming issues. 

The drawing was quite strong on this issue, I really liked the facial expressions on Theta as well as the interior designs of the ship and the overall environment. Hopefully we get to see more action in the future from the artists. 

Overall - 3.5 out of 5 stars.