Graphic Novel Review - The Fables of Erlking Wood

Name: The Fables of Erlking Wood 

Published by: Goats Flying Press

Writer & Artist: Juni Ba

Letterer: Aditya Bidikar

A rather unorthodox piece of modern-influenced folk tale incorporating a healthy dose of humor, sadness, and charm with beautiful design and artwork. That is how I can describe in one sentence this delightful little graphic novel that came literally out of nowhere to hit me in the feels reminding me a bit about my own lonely childhood.

This one is presented as a collection of fables and tales focused on the Erlking Wood of the title, the small bits then coming together in the overarching story of the main characters while creating an atmosphere of magically charged longing and contentment at the same time.

These characters despite being a mixture of animals, humans, and demigods are all quite emotional and relatable, and the author makes the reader care for their journeys of self-discovery and attempts at redemption. 

The art is just a joy to look at, giving another extra dose of magic into the overall mix. The changes in style are quite a unique experience, creating a different realm for the reader to explore.

A delightful read, gets 4.5 out of 5 stars from me.

Graphic Novel Review - Bowling with Corpses & Other Strange Tales from Lands Unknown

Name: Bowling with Corpses & Other Strange Tales from Lands Unknown

Published by: Dark Horse Book

Writer & Artist: Mike Mignola

Colorist: Dave Stewart 

Letterer: Clem Robins

My experience with Mike Mignola is quite limited, as I have only read the first volume of Hellboy and a few other works from him here and there. So, it was quite a lot of fun to be acquainted with his unique style of storytelling and unorthodox art. And the concept of building a new world also resonated with me, satisfying an older craving.

Bowling with Corpses features the titular story along with a bunch of short stories telling some simplistic yet brilliantly depicted tales while introducing the boundaries of the setting. The storytelling technique is quite engrossing; often using the art and the overall setting reminded me of 'The Gods of Pegana', which is a book I still remember quite fondly.

What more can I say about Mignola's art that hasn't always been said. It creates a vivid sense of otherworldly sensation and dark brooding atmosphere that acts as the main force driving the story. My only gripe is that somehow I feel the art would have worked even better in black and white.

Hoping to see more from this world and quite eager to find out what happens to these characters in the future. I will give this 4 out of 5 stars.

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 - 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. 

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. 

New Comic Review - Star Wars: The High Republic #1

Name: Star Wars: The High Republic #1

Published by: Marvel comics

Writer: Cavan Scott

Artists: Ario Anindito, Mark Morales, Andrea Broccardo

Colorist: Frank William

Letterer: VC's Ariana Maher

A lot of stuff happens in this issue compared to most modern single issue comic book. My first foray into the comics of the High Republic era was quite enjoyable and interesting. This issue was a great jumping on point introducing readers to the setting of phase II and some of its factions and characters in a fun way. 

We, as readers, arrive with the Jedi Vildar Mac to the pilgrim moon Jedha and immediately get embroiled in the conflicting public opinions and religions while we try to investigate a theft of a religious artifact as well. The perspective of someone new with a traumatic past entering into this place which is as new to him as to the readers was a good way to introduce us to the setting. 

Cavan Scott also kept throwing various factions and species at us at considerable speed, reminding readers of the richness of the Star Wars universe. The plot progression was free flowing and swept us along nicely for the ride, abruptly jolting us with the ending twist and the reveal of the surprise narrator. 

The art by Anindito and Morales did a fine job depicting the beautiful locations and backgrounds while nicely introducing us to this dizzying array of different species in such a short scope. I would have loved a bit more dynamic approach to the fight scenes, though, hopefully this will be implemented in the future. 

The side story 'Peace and Unity' does a brilliant job of introducing us to another new Jedi and showing us a glimpse of the Convocation and yet more new species to sink our teeth into. And the short story also has a nice bit of ironic humor to make it more enjoyable. 

All in all, this was a thoroughly enjoyable entry into the new phase of the High Republic for both old and new readers. 4.5 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Star Wars: Visions #1

Name: Star Wars: Visions #1

Published by: Marvel comics

Writer & Artist: Takashi Okazaki

English Translation: Aki Yanagi

Letterer: VC's Joe Caramagna

Those who saw and loved 'The Duel' episode from Star Wars: Visions animated series were eagerly awaiting the return of the Ronin and his world. And after the full length, he returns again, this time in a story by the original writer of the episode. 

The story is a short prequel set in an unspecified period before the episode, describes the Ronin's adventures in a snowy mountain as he battles a band of bandits and encounters a mysterious stranger while travelling with his droid. 

The short one-shot has quite an enjoyable plot once again reminding us about the glorious movies and fiction it so beautifully pays homage to. The dialogue is poignant and to the point, the action sequences are stunning and brilliant. And the overall experience leaves any reader desiring more stories featuring these characters. 

The art is almost as beautiful as the original episode minus the vivid and stylized animation. The black and white drawing inspired by Manga and the use of colors only to highlight the weapons and battles works wonders to create a sense of visual motion and makes the detailed art even more gorgeous. 

I left with wishing this was at least a mini-series instead of being just a one-shot. This is recommended to not only to any fans of the original, but also to any fans of Star Wars and samurai inspired fiction in general. 

A well deserved 4.5 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Daredevil #4

Name: Daredevil #4

Published by: Marvel comics

Writter: Chip Zdarsky

Artist: Rafael De Latorre

Colorist: Matthew Wilson

Letterer: VC's Clayton Cowles

Detective Cole North is one of favourite new characters of Zdarsky era of Daredevil. And this issue is narrated mostly by him. While nothing much happens compared to the last few issues and by Zdarsky's standards, the reveal at the end was quite massive and Cole's side of the view of the story was really refreshing, another great issue to say the least. 

We travel to the secret island with Daredevil, Cole and Foggy and immediately greeted by the new recruits of Elektra and Stick. Some crisp dialogue and minimal description leads us to the unique journey that our Daredevil duo must make, followed by two simultaneous fight scenes occurring in different locations of the island ending in a revelation that is sure to set the stage for the future of the series for a while. 

The drawing by Rafael De Latorre and Matthew Wilson was quite brilliant in this issue. Enhancing the overall atmosphere of seriousness and the violent future struggles to come. I loved how the fights were drawn with excellent coloring and beautiful depiction of faces and eyes. 

This was yet another strong issue in the almost inconceivable and flawless era of Zdarsky's Daredevil. And the future seems to show signs of relenting and more promises of good stories for the fans. 

4.5 out of 5 stars, once again. 

New Comic Review - Ant-man #4

Name: Ant-man #4

Published by: Marvel Comics 

Writer: Al Ewing

Artist: Tom Reilly

Colorist: Jordie Bellaire

Letterer: VC's Cory Petit

The amusing and nostalgic journey comes to an end. We finally get to learn about the Ant-man from the future in this final issue, as the struggle against the All-father Ultron comes to a close in this final issue. Reilly tries to mix all of the styles he previously tried in the series to give the finale ever more panache. 

In the first six or so pages Ewing creates a total backstory for the future Ant-man, and tries to explain the reasons behind his time travel. We learn about the devastating nature and the immense power of All-father Ultron as well. The rest of the issue is a fight scene as all incarnations of Ant-man tries to find a way to defeat this version of Ultron. 

The art by Reilly and Bellaire is as gorgeous as ever, they use different color pallets and nuances to draw each version of Ant-man to make each unique and easily recognizable. The actions have an enjoyable and flamboyant nature with Reilly's unique style augmented by Bellaire's exquisite coloring. I also loved the varied method of lettering used by Cory Petit throughout the issue. 

My only complaint with the issue is the overuse of pseudo superhero science in the issue, especially the almost incomprehensible method our heroes used to defeat Ultron in the end. Despite these issues, this was most definitely the best anniversary tribute mini-series that has come out in years. 

This gets a well deserved 4 out of 5 stars from me.

New Comic Review - Star Wars: Hyperspace Stories #2

Name: Star Wars: Hyperspace Stories #2

Published by: Dark Horse Comics 

Writer: Cecil Castellucci

Artist: Megan Huang

Letters: Comicraft’s Tyler Smith and Jimmy Betancourt

Despite not being as good as the first issue, Hyperspace Stories continue to provide fun little one issue stories set in different time periods in the rich history of Star Wars. This time the story focuses on the legendary twin of Luke and Leia as they search for a safe haven for the Rebel Alliance after the destruction of the first Death Star. 

The duo reaches a seemingly harmless planet called Banas, but finds out that this little planet might not be as inconsequential as they first thought it to be and gets embroiled in a new battle for survival against the forces of the Galactic Empire. 

The story, while not adding much to the canon of the overall plot, does provide an all ages adventure introducing a new planet, a new sentient species and some interesting dialogue between Luke and Leia. 

The art was quite unorthodox and definitely not for people who like their characters to look like the live-action counterparts. I myself enjoyed this new look at the familiar characters. The environment and vehicles were done in a unique style also, giving a charming edge to the story. 

Overall an enjoyable experience, despite the low stakes of the battle, I will give this 3.5 out of 5 stars. 

New Comic Review - Batman #128

Name: Batman #128

Published by: DC comics

Writter: Chip Zdarsky

Artists: Jorge Jimenez, Leonardo Romero

Colorists: Tomeu Morey, Jordie Bellaire 

Letterer: Clayton Cowles

It is hard to write stuff about this new Batman run by Zdarsky and Jimenez without starting with readers to stop everything and urgently start reading, especially if they are a fan of action or superheroes. The duo delivers another top notch issue with immaculate characterization and mesmerising action. 

The story continues progressing at a breathtaking pace and we get cameo appearances from several Justice League members. The characterization of these characters was spot on by Zdarsky and his depiction of them and their dialogues feels natural and effortless. I really loved the banter despite the seriousness of the situation. We get a sense of how truly efficient and ruthless Failsafe is throughout his interactions with these characters. 

The dialogue between Bruce and Tim when they separate due to the circumstances was my most favourite bit in this issue. It shines a light on the fatherly aspect of Batman and makes him feel more human than ever, and quite unlike the weapon that always strives to be. 

Some may argue that this setup has been done before, in the iconic 'Tower of Babel' or various other instances where Batman's enemies have defeated his whole team and has taken over Gotham. But it is quite hard to not be influenced by past stories while writing such an iconic character with such long history. And Zdarsky's execution of the story and his handling of the characters makes this such a joy to read and very refreshing and modern despite obvious homages to past runs. 

The art by Jimenez and Morey once again is spectacular. The action sequences are the true strength of the duo with their impactful use of art and colors, making the motions seem to reach a new level vividness. The costumes of these vast array of characters were also detailed quite thoroughly and I loved the facial expressions emphasising on the direness of the situation. 

The new side story by Zdarsky and Leonardo Romero that begins here seems very promising. The story seems like it will delve more into the story of Batman of Zurr-En-Arrh. The drawing is very unique and adds a sense of old school nostalgia surrounding these iconic characters. The cliffhanger does make readers ponder about the future. 

Another almost perfect issue that gets 4.5 out of 5 stars from me. 

New Comic Review - Ant-man #3

Name: Ant-man #3

Published by: Marvel Comics 

Writer: Al Ewing

Artist: Tom Reilly

Colorist: Jordie Bellaire

Letterer: VC's Cory Petit

Well, now I am officially a fan of this creative duo. Once again, they provide another brilliant issue, this time dealing with the most famous incarnation of Ant-man. This issue is packed with funny and witty dialogue, progresses the plot towards its inevitable conclusion in the future issue, while introducing readers to more of the iconic and interesting characters from the Ant-man mythos. 

Al Ewing completely understands the essence of the character of Scott Lang, and depicts him clearly as a family man, a smart and down to earth superhero who is smart and witty but knows when to get serious when the situation demands it. I really loved his handling of Cassie and the LMD version of Black Ant. It was great to see the cameos by some big shot Avengers too.

The most funny thing in this was definitely the banter between the characters, I also loved the father and daughter dynamic and the humorous monologue by the Black Ant. In fact, it was hard to find a misstep in the pages of this issue. And the twist at the end cleverly set up the stage for the finale. 

The art and color by Reilly and Bellaire is as good as the first two issues. Reilly once again morphs his style, this time adapting the modern approach, with using his unique grasp of the medium, and from the help of Bellaire creates a sense of motion while the characters change their sizes and the action scenes. The coloring also works to add up a kind of personality for the different characters with the use of shading. 

Despite initially wishing to write a short review, I cannot help myself from adding stuff to express my enthusiasm for this thoroughly entertaining and delightful little mini-series. 

My score - 4.5 out of 5.