[Comics] - Evil Avatar's Weekly Comic Book Reviews - Year 2 - Week 8

[Everlost_MI]

Welcome to week eight of Evil Avatar’s Weekly Comic Book Reviews.

The Evil Avatar’s Comic Book Review Weekly giveaway for week eight is Runaways #13 courtesy of BCBcomics (http://www.bcbcomics.com/). The deadline of entry submissions for week eight is midnight EST on Sunday, February 26th. The selection of the random winner for the February books will occur on Monday, February 27th. Click here (everlost_mi@evilavatar.com) to submit your entry and don’t forget to include your Evil Avatar screenname. Remember, you can submit one entry each week to increase your chances of winning.

The list of books that are going to be given away for the month of February are:

· Hulk #91 (http://www.bcbcomics.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=14969)
· WILDCATS: Nemesis #6
· Franklin Richards Son of A Genius: Everyone Loves Franklin #1
· Runaways #13

If you’re tired of missing out on your regular or new comics then you’re in need of a reliable comic book subscription provider. Evil Avatar’s Comic Book Review Weekly giveaway provider, BCBcomics (http://www.bcbcomics.com/) offers comic book subscriptions (http://www.bcbcomics.com/index.asp?PageAction=Custom&ID=7
) with many fringe benefits including no hidden costs, 30-35% off of cover price (depending on the publisher), all issues are bagged and boarded and cheap* shipping on all orders (*see BCBcomics’ website (http://www.bcbcomics.com/index.asp?PageAction=Custom&ID=7
) for the details).

In addition, the comics featured on BCBcomics home page are 50% off or just $1 if you’re a subscriber.

Remember, these are NOT spoiler-free reviews.

[Everlost_MI]

Week Eight:
Evil Avatar's Weekly Comic Book Reviews – Year 2 - Week 8
By Everlost_MI (Brian K. Nichols), Editor in Chief

Batgirl #73 (End of the ongoing series)
Publisher: DC Comics
Writer: Andersen Gabrych
Penciler: Pop Mhan
Inkers: Jesse Delperdang and Adam Dekraker
Colorist: Jason Wright
Editor: Michael Wright
Price: $2.50 US/$3.50 CAN

http://www.evilavatar.com/images/thumbs/comics/batgirl73.jpg

This series comes to a close with the revelation of Lady Shiva’s origin as well as the confirmation of her being Cassandra Cain’s (Batgirl) mother. A final fight between mother and daughter leaves Batgirl victorious as she snaps Lady Shiva’s neck but she’s unable to finish her mother off. In respect and as a huge cliffhanger, Lady Shiva's last wish of not to being resurrected in the Lazarus Pit is granted as Cassandra impales her dying body upon hook that precariously hangs over the Lazarus Pit. It appears from the artwork that the hook could tear through Lady Shiva and drop her body into the Lazarus Pit. The book ends Cassandrea leaving the cowl of Batgirl behind her.

Andersen Gabrych’s characterizations and dialogue were enjoyable and the plot was accessible to those who normally do not follow the series or character. Pop Mhan’s artwork is a decent, but there are some inconsistencies when it comes to the faces of the characters. Nevertheless, Mhan’s work really shines during the fight sequences and panel layouts.

Bottom Line:
The issue was enjoyable; it had a nice mix of action and revelations. However, for fans of the character and the series, the ending may lack the punch or finesse you had hoped for.

Rating: 3 1/2 out of 5 EvilEyes
http://www.evilavatar.com/images/icons/e3_5.jpg


Runaways #13(An ongoing series)
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Writer: Brian K. Vaughan
Penciler: Adrian Alphona
Inker: Craig Yeung
Colorist: Christina Strain
Letters: VC’s Randy Gentile
Editor: MacKenzie Cadenhead
Price: $2.99 US/$4.25 CAN

http://www.evilavatar.com/images/thumbs/comics/runaways13.jpg

The issue opens with Molly waking up in the sewers under Los Angeles with a collar around her neck while being surrounded by runaway children who’ve been dubbed The Artful Dodgers. These children have become enslaved to The Provost by the threat of turning them into stone statues by the collars that they wear if they do not rob for him. The Provost states that tampering with the collar will ensure petrification. Molly forms a plan with the children to escape and they’re able to gain their freedom after defeating the Provost. Molly tries to get the children to join the Runaways after the victory but they just want to go home to their parents as they realize they miss their former lives. These responses burrow into Molly subconscious as she dreams of her parents still being alive as the issue ends.

Brian K. Vaughan has created a great stand alone Molly-centric story that no matter how strong any of the Runaways are or that they did they right thing by revolting against their parents, they’re still emotional as they miss their former lives and parents. The dialogue was witty and the characterizations were excellent. Adrian Alphona’s artwork continues to add a unique flavor to the series with a touch of manga.

Bottom Line:
Whether you’ve been following the series or are a new comer, this is an enjoyable stand-alone story that adds an additional layer to Molly character.

Rating: 4 out of 5 EvilEyes
http://www.evilavatar.com/images/icons/e4.jpg


Manhunter #19 (An ongoing series)
Publisher: DC Comics
Writer: Marc Andreyko
Penciler: Javier Pina
Inkers: Fernando Blanco
Colorist: Steve Buccellato
Letterer: Travis Lanham
Editor: Joan Hilty
Price: $2.50 US/$3.50 CAN

http://www.evilavatar.com/images/thumbs/comics/manhunter19.jpg

This issue brings Manhunter, Kate Spencer, face to face with her super-power biological father Walter Pratt. Pratt kidnapped Kate’s ex-husband and son in an effort to get a bone marrow transplant from his grandson to save him from bone cancer. Pratt enlisted the aid of Phobia and Dr. Moon for this caper, but Kate soundly trounced Phobia and Dr. Moon was a victim of collateral damage. Pratt enraged by the death of Dr. Moon who was his last chance leaps throw the teleporter Kate uses to get back home. Kate, who has proven herself capable of being a Manhunter, shows her father no quarter as she kills him by crushing the teleporter device as he was half way through the portal. Meanwhile, Damon who is Kate’s assistant discovers that his boyfriend, Todd, is the son of Alan Scott, the Golden Age Green Lantern. A holographic message from Alan Scott appears bearing bad news about Todd’s sister. The issue ends with Kate discovering she was pregnant after being told by the doctor that she miscarried from the trauma of the fight. Kate’s son, Ramsey, vows by her bedside that he won’t anyone hurt her or his Dad again. Which is could be an interesting subplot as the next issue picks up a year later from the Infinite Crisis.

Marc Andreyko has closed and created various entertaining subplots in this issue despite the impending One Year Later DC universe-wide storyline. Andreyko's dialogue and use of characters is excellent and quickly draws the reader into the story. However, the artwork by Javier Pina is rough and has a tendency to cause distractions from the immersion of the strong script.

Bottom Line:
I have to state that while the issue was enjoyable, it doesn’t begin to scratch the surface of how interesting and intricate the series is. It’s an intelligent series that feels like a super hero Law & Order series filled will strong characters in the midst of solid action, drama and suspense. With that being said, if this issue sparks any interest, take the time to at least look at some of the previous issues.

Rating: 4 out of 5 EvilEyes
http://www.evilavatar.com/images/icons/e4.jpg

What else is worth reading this week…

· Justice #4 – The heroes fall like dominos.

The Evil Avatar’s Comic Book Review Weekly giveaway for week eight is Runaways #13 courtesy of BCBcomics (http://www.bcbcomics.com/). The deadline for week eight entry submissions is Sunday, February 26th.

Click here (everlost_mi@evilavatar.com) to submit your entry and don’t forget to include your Evil Avatar screenname.

Remember, you can submit one entry per week to increase your chances of winning.

[Everlost_MI]

I would recommend avoiding the X-Men: Apocalypse Dracula series at all costs. The story is horrible and the artwork is meh. I had to put it back on the rack after trying to leaf through it in the store.

[Spigot]

Thanks for the heads-up about the Dracula series. I saw it in the shop yesterday and thankfully passed it by.

Is Ultimate Wolvie vs. Hulk #2 out this week? I thought I read somewhere that it was. And how long do I have to wait for Marvel Zombies #4? Someone tell me these things!!! I've become re-hooked on comics. Sigh.

[Everlost_MI]

Thanks for the heads-up about the Dracula series. I saw it in the shop yesterday and thankfully passed it by.

Is Ultimate Wolvie vs. Hulk #2 out this week? I thought I read somewhere that it was. And how long do I have to wait for Marvel Zombies #4? Someone tell me these things!!! I've become re-hooked on comics. Sigh.

Yup, Ultimate Wolvie Vs. Hulk #2 is supposed to ship this week as well as Astonishing X-Men #13. Next week is Marvel Zombies #4, so hold tight!

[thecrazyd]

Anyone else here read Pirate Club? I just got caught up with issues 7-9, and damn is it awesome.

[WastelandDan]

I would recommend avoiding the X-Men: Apocalypse Dracula series at all costs. The story is horrible and the artwork is meh. I had to put it back on the rack after trying to leaf through it in the store.

I did the exact same thing when I saw it. Opened it up, looked at it for about 20 seconds and then put it right back down. It reminded me of the tv special "The Batman Vs Dracula". Even when you consider that The Batman is a terrible, terrible show (especially compared to the original Batman cartoon now on dvd) it was still really awful.

[JazGalaxy]

I really could not understand the ending of Batgirl to save my life.

What in the world happened? I got that she had to kill Shiva even though that didn't really make sense. I got that Shiva didn't want to be put into the Lazarus pit. So... Cassandra hooks her by a chunk of skin to a hook dangling over the pit? What?

It was bizzare and gross....

[Kefkataran]

Is Ultimate Wolvie vs. Hulk #2 out this week? I thought I read somewhere that it was. And how long do I have to wait for Marvel Zombies #4? Someone tell me these things!!! I've become re-hooked on comics. Sigh.

Check my Comic Day post on Tuesday. It'll definitely have Ultimate Wolvie v. Hulk and Marvel Zombies in my list if they're out.

Anyone else here read Pirate Club? I just got caught up with issues 7-9, and damn is it awesome.

I've actually never heard of it. What is it, who puts it out, and who's it by? :) Details!

I got that Shiva didn't want to be put into the Lazarus pit. So... Cassandra hooks her by a chunk of skin to a hook dangling over the pit? What?

Yeah, I didn't read the book but this part in Everlost's synopsis made me go "Huh"?

Announcement to all of you: START READING TESTAMENT IMMEDIATELY. Finally got the first three issues of this Vertigo series and read them this weekend, and it's FANTASTIC. This is a series you do not want to miss out on.

[thecrazyd]

I've actually never heard of it. What is it, who puts it out, and who's it by? :) Details!
Pirate Club is a cool little black and white number drawn and written by Derek Hunter. The art has a really unique style that looks weird at first, but really grew on me. And the story keeps getting better. It is put out by Slave Labor, but is not your typical teen angst SL book. The first arc is about to end, and I eagerly await the next issue. The first issue was released online for free, and you can find that, as well as some other minis Derek Hunter made at www.pirateclub.com

[Kefkataran]

Pirate Club is a cool little black and white number drawn and written by Derek Hunter. The art has a really unique style that looks weird at first, but really grew on me. And the story keeps getting better. It is put out by Slave Labor, but is not your typical teen angst SL book. The first arc is about to end, and I eagerly await the next issue. The first issue was released online for free, and you can find that, as well as some other minis Derek Hunter made at www.pirateclub.com

Well, hell. I do dig Slave Labor quite a bit. I'll need to look into it. Any trades or plans for trades?

[thecrazyd]

Well, hell. I do dig Slave Labor quite a bit. I'll need to look into it. Any trades or plans for trades?
Why, indeed there is! There is currently a trade out containing the first five books. I would expect another one shortly after #10 comes out.

[Kefkataran]

Why, indeed there is! There is currently a trade out containing the first five books. I would expect another one shortly after #10 comes out.

Fantastic! I'll definitely be picking this up on your recommendation, and I'll let you know what I think when I do.

[Everlost_MI]

I really could not understand the ending of Batgirl to save my life.

What in the world happened? I got that she had to kill Shiva even though that didn't really make sense. I got that Shiva didn't want to be put into the Lazarus pit. So... Cassandra hooks her by a chunk of skin to a hook dangling over the pit? What?

It was bizzare and gross....

I cleaned up the synopsis a bit. I thought the Batgirl ending was to leave it open for Shiva to come back because the hook will rip through her shoulder. I felt the ending was a quick way for the powers that be at DC to allow a new Batgirl to come into play after One Year Later.

[PacerDawn]

Next week is Marvel Zombies #4, so hold tight!
Next week? I just got issue #3 last week, I didn't think those came out until like the first week or two of the month. I would think at least 2 more weeks before the next issue?

While I was in the store I also saw the "Marvel Zombies Issue #1 - Alternate Addition". Basically, it's a reprint of issue #1 with a different cover. I picked one up because the guy at the store said he would give me $10 credit for my original first issue.

Why did they put out an alternate addition? To milk money out of us?

[AspectVoid]

Why did they put out an alternate addition? To milk money out of us?

No, its because the first issue had a limited print and sold out insanely fast and people like me who got to the store on Thursday rather then Wendsday found it completely sold out. So yeah, that really sucked for me.

As for last week's comics, I think I enjoyed Runaways the most. That series is just a lot of fun and looks great as well. Molly is probably my favorite character in the series as she really brings out the childish fantasies of the whole situation. It was really nice seeing her get the spotlight.

[Everlost_MI]

No, its because the first issue had a limited print and sold out insanely fast and people like me who got to the store on Thursday rather then Wendsday found it completely sold out. So yeah, that really sucked for me.

A owner of one of the comic shops I go to was telling me he's been seeing first print copies of Marvel Zombies #1 going between $20-$60 a pop on Ebay.

*shrug*

[Kefkataran]

Why did they put out an alternate addition? To milk money out of us?

Like Aspect said, Marvel didn't bank on the series being as popular as it has been, so they didn't print enough copies and it sold out fast. I'm sure some people who already got the first ish will by the Alternate addition for the variant cover, but I've never understood those variant cover folk.

[AspectVoid]

You know, I only like the Variant covers because they let me pick which cover I like best (assuming one isn't marked up in price). I would never buy both copies of a comic, but I'm always up for having more choices.

[Kefkataran]

You know, I only like the Variant covers because they let me pick which cover I like best (assuming one isn't marked up in price). I would never buy both copies of a comic, but I'm always up for having more choices.

It's okay some of the time, but ocassionally they go variant cover crazy. Like with variants for all 12 parts of that 'meh' Spider-Man: The Other crossover? Yikes. But like two covers for each issue of Infinite Crisis? I can deal with that. (Make mine Perez!)

[PacerDawn]

Interesting. I just checked e-bay and the auctions that are set to expire in the next hour have it at $20 or more with multiple bids. $10 credit my arse...

Feh, I'll probably keep it anyway. I'm not really a collector; I just got the books because I'm a fan of zombie stories, but I've never had anything even semi-rare before. I can keep the original bagged and just read the variant.

[Kefkataran]

Feh, I'll probably keep it anyway. I'm not really a collector; I just got the books because I'm a fan of zombie stories, but I've never had anything even semi-rare before. I can keep the original bagged and just read the variant.

I have the original, but I'm not a collector either. Not really interested in making money off of it, so I doubt I'll make sure to keep it in perfect condition or anything.

[swiftdraw]

I keep my comics in sleeve just to keep the dust off of them. We're re-modeling the rec room so there is dust everywhere in the house...

Are there any known plans for Marvel to set out one of those books with all the Marvel Zombie issues in it?

[Everlost_MI]

I keep my comics in sleeve just to keep the dust off of them. We're re-modeling the rec room so there is dust everywhere in the house...

Are there any known plans for Marvel to set out one of those books with all the Marvel Zombie issues in it?

Yes, according to Amazon it will be released on June 28th in hardcover. (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/078512277X/sr=8-1/qid=1140463956/ref=pd_bbs_1/104-7266018-5687160?%5Fencoding=UTF8)

But it won't have the inital story from the Ultimate Fantastic Four that kicked off the whole Marvel Zombie spin-off. Or the follow up story that is going to be coming out in the May issues of UFF.

[Kefkataran]

Are there any known plans for Marvel to set out one of those books with all the Marvel Zombie issues in it?

You mean a trade collection of the mini? Seems likely, especially considering how well the mini has been received by the community. Marvel releases almost everything in trade these days, so you can count on it.

[Spigot]

Which issues of UFF had the Zombie kick-off story in it? I'm heading to a big comic shop this week and wouldn't mind having a look for them.

Also, what's up with this UX4 title I've seen around? I figure it's some kind of Ultimate X-men/Fantastic 4 team-up, but I haven't heard anyone even mention it around here.

[Kefkataran]

Also, what's up with this UX4 title I've seen around? I figure it's some kind of Ultimate X-men/Fantastic 4 team-up, but I haven't heard anyone even mention it around here.

It was just a 2-issue Ultimate Fantastic Four / Ultimate X-Men team-up mini. Hadn't heard whether or not it's any good, but I'll probably pick up the trade eventually.

[Spigot]

Hmm.. If it's just two issues, I might grab it this week too. I'll let you know if it's any good.

[thecrazyd]

I thought the art was horrendous in UX4.

*Edit* Although, now that I think of it, that may have been some other XMen/F4 crossover. Was UX4 the one where the XMen somehow got the F4's powers?

[Kefkataran]

Hmm.. If it's just two issues, I might grab it this week too. I'll let you know if it's any good.

Please do!

[Everlost_MI]

It was just a 2-issue Ultimate Fantastic Four / Ultimate X-Men team-up mini. Hadn't heard whether or not it's any good, but I'll probably pick up the trade eventually.

Ewww. Stay away!! The first issue was horrible it has a bad/dumb/lame story and the art was ugly. Tell you what, anyone who wants my copy can have it.

[Everlost_MI]

Which issues of UFF had the Zombie kick-off story in it? I'm heading to a big comic shop this week and wouldn't mind having a look for them.

Ultimate Fantastic Four #21-#23 is the storyarc that leads into Marvel Zombies. I think every issue after that has some form of the Fantastic Four zombies in it for at least a few panels as it builds up to climax with UFF #30 in May.

[Spigot]

Ewww. Stay away!! The first issue was horrible it has a bad/dumb/lame story and the art was ugly. Tell you what, anyone who wants my copy can have it.
Ah, thanks for the warning. I just hadn't heard anything about it and had noticed it at a couple shops this week.

Man, this is going to be an expensive week for comics if I have to go digging up all those back issues. Sigh. And I don't even particularly like the Fantastic 4, Ultimate or otherwise.

[Kefkataran]

Tell you what, anyone who wants my copy can have it.

I'd take it if you're serious. But only because I'm being a completist as far as the Ultimate line is concerned for some silly reason. Still.

Man, this is going to be an expensive week for comics if I have to go digging up all those back issues. Sigh. And I don't even particularly like the Fantastic 4, Ultimate or otherwise.

Hey, if you don't like FF, don't waste the money. While I've heard amazing things about Millar's Ultimate FF run (and, I mean, hell, zombies), it seems unlikely he'll change your mind on them as a whole.

[Megalith]

Fantastic Four are the dumbest superheroes ever, in my opinion.

Does anyone have a picture of the Marvel Zombies #1 variant cover? Hopefully they'll do a reprint of #2 as well. There is this strange phenomenon where all the comic shops in my area never have any second issues of any series I care about.

[Kefkataran]

Fantastic Four are the dumbest superheroes ever, in my opinion.

Ouch.

I mantain my opinion that there are no bad heroes -- just bad writers and artists. Anyone can be good under the right writer.

There is this strange phenomenon where all the comic shops in my area never have any second issues of any series I care about.

Comic shops almost always order first issues of series and minis and almost always order less (or none) of the second unless someone pulls it. It's very annoying. Ellis's Fell had this same problem.

[Megalith]

Well, the strange thing is that there'll be a few copies of the first issue, none of the second, tons of the third, and so on.

What is this comic "pulling" anyway? I thought that it was just another term for your selections, but does it actually refer to ordering a specific list of items through your vendor?

I really wouldn't be interested in that however, since I don't want to commit to something before it is in my hands. Also, most of that stuff on previews can be months away.

[bardockkun]

Fantastic Four are the dumbest superheroes ever, in my opinion.
I second Kef. Fantastic Four has had plenty of bad times (Sue's Stripper outfit, Doom and Reed switching bodies, Heroes Reborn, the two movies), but still plenty of good stories and also the comic that helped resurrect Marvel.

GLA were a couple of dumb heroes, but Dan Slott made me enjoy them (and their deaths). Who would've known id care about Squirrel Girl.

[Megalith]

I think part of the reason why I don't like the FF is that I have a problem with groupings and teams. I've always been impressed by the hero or heroine that is a loner, and can deal with anything without anyone's help. The whole Bruce Wayne, alone in the dark in a Batcave sort of thing. But Sue's Stripper outfit sounds pretty good to me.

I'm also surprised to hear that it resurrected Marvel?...that is something I would have imagined that Spider-Man would be responsible for.

Oddly enough, I may not be too interested in the FF comics, but I want to check out the movie.

[bardockkun]

I'm also surprised to hear that it resurrected Marvel?...that is something I would have imagined that Spider-Man would be responsible for.


Time for some Marvel History since im bored and can't sleep.

Marvel Comics was basically on the ropes during the fifties since they (and all other comic companies) were blamed for basically juvinile delinquincy, homosexuality, and prostitution and were at the point where they had to release comics through a branch off of DC. By the sixties DC had scored a hit with JLA. Inspired by the thought of a team of heroes joining together to combat evil, Stan Lee came up with the Fantastic Four and decided to take it a step further by making them have problems a family would face and thus a hit was born and a start of the silver age.

God i wish i could sleep soon as i pound my head on a rock instead of going into a coma Also sorry to share that, but i wrote too many reports on comics that i had to unleash a bit of randomness.

[Kefkataran]

What is this comic "pulling" anyway? I thought that it was just another term for your selections, but does it actually refer to ordering a specific list of items through your vendor?

Pulling = having a pull list, which basically means, yes, ordering a title through the comic store. Titles are usually ordered about two months in advance (that's how Diamond's ordering system works), so you can always take stuff off if you see the solicit and aren't interested. Also, if your store is a good one and the employees like you and your business, they'll often let you not purchase stuff you put on your pull list but ended up disliking, as long as you don't do that all the time. I understand your aversion to it, though. It's not for everyone, although if you're really against pull lists, it's usually an easier option to collect trades rather than single issues.

I think part of the reason why I don't like the FF is that I have a problem with groupings and teams. I've always been impressed by the hero or heroine that is a loner, and can deal with anything without anyone's help. The whole Bruce Wayne, alone in the dark in a Batcave sort of thing. But Sue's Stripper outfit sounds pretty good to me.

Gotta remember, though, Batman's also a part of the JLA. Sure, he has his solo books, but even in his solo books there's constantly guest appearances from other heroes and a whole Bat-hero family built around him (several Robins/Nightwing, a couple Batgirls/Oracle, etc.).

I'm also surprised to hear that it resurrected Marvel?...that is something I would have imagined that Spider-Man would be responsible for.

Nope. Fantastic Four was the first Marvel superhero comic back in the '60s and it was a MASSIVE hit that completely revitalized the comic industry's interest in superheroes. Spider-Man came soon after and obviously was also huge, but Spider-Man probably never would've happened if not for the FF. Bard's info goes a bit more into this. :)

Oddly enough, I may not be too interested in the FF comics, but I want to check out the movie.

The movie's not bad as long as you don't go in expecting anything terribly deep or exciting. It's a straight forward, fun action superhero flick and nothing more. I'm a bit sad that Doctor Doom isn't as cool as I'd want him to be (being a huge fan of him), but that could change in the sequel. Worth giving a watch at least, just don't expect *too* much.

[Megalith]

Comics being blamed for homosexuality.

Interesting.

Also, I can't stand the concept behind the JLA. SUPERMAN having to rely on teammates just boggles my mind.

[Kefkataran]

Comics being blamed for homosexuality.

Interesting.

They were a scapegoat sort of along the same lines that videogames are blamed for school violence nowadays. There was a big "expose" book called Seduction of the Innocent that spearheaded a lot of this. More info:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seduction_of_the_Innocent

[bardockkun]

They were a scapegoat sort of along the same lines that videogames are blamed for school violence nowadays. There was a big "expose" book called Seduction of the Innocent that spearheaded a lot of this. More info:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seduction_of_the_Innocent
I can tell someone had to do reports on comic books.

[Kefkataran]

I can tell someone had to do reports on comic books.

Nope. As I've stated before, I just started reading comics about a year ago. But in that year I've gotten very interested and done a bit of reading into the history and such. The info's not too obscure or anything, so if you do just a little digging into comics history, you'll come across it.

Reading Comics 101 helped: www.comics101.com

[Everlost_MI]

I'd take it if you're serious. But only because I'm being a completist as far as the Ultimate line is concerned for some silly reason. Still.


Ok, you got it. PM your info and I'll get the book out to you this weekend.

[Spigot]

Hey, if you don't like FF, don't waste the money. While I've heard amazing things about Millar's Ultimate FF run (and, I mean, hell, zombies), it seems unlikely he'll change your mind on them as a whole.
I don't mind FF when they are guest stars in other books. I've just never really been into them enough to want to read their own series.

I would probably pick up the Zombies tie-ins though, just to have the complete story.

I'm hoping my library gets the trades of UFF so I can see if they're any good. There have been a few cross-overs with UXMen and USpidey, but not much more than a brief appearance in the books I've read. We'll see.

Speaking of Zombies, what happened to Black Panther? I seem to have missed something because when he shows up in issue #3, I don't have any memory of him being around prior.

[Spigot]

The movie's not bad as long as you don't go in expecting anything terribly deep or exciting. It's a straight forward, fun action superhero flick and nothing more. I'm a bit sad that Doctor Doom isn't as cool as I'd want him to be (being a huge fan of him), but that could change in the sequel. Worth giving a watch at least, just don't expect *too* much.
From a pure action movie standpoint, it's not bad. I thought most of the actors actually resembled the characters and were able to pull off their mannerisms pretty well, although Jessica Alba as Sue Storm is one of the WORST casting decisions ever.

I didn't like what they did with Doom though. It was some weird hybrid of Ultimate Doom and normal Doom without any of the Cool Doom being a part of it.

Ah well.

[Kefkataran]

Speaking of Zombies, what happened to Black Panther? I seem to have missed something because when he shows up in issue #3, I don't have any memory of him being around prior.

Pretty sure he's in issue #2... perhaps a reread is in order, eh?

although Jessica Alba as Sue Storm is one of the WORST casting decisions ever.

VERY agreed.

It was some weird hybrid of Ultimate Doom and normal Doom without any of the Cool Doom being a part of it.

Again agreed, although, like I said earlier, there's a chance this could be fixed. Here's hoping.

[PacerDawn]

Ultimate Fantastic Four #21-#23 is the storyarc that leads into Marvel Zombies. I think every issue after that has some form of the Fantastic Four zombies in it for at least a few panels as it builds up to climax with UFF #30 in May.They appear on a few pages in #24, the first Namor issue, but after that nada. At least not past #26, and I havn't seen any issues past that.

There is this strange phenomenon where all the comic shops in my area never have any second issues of any series I care about.My guess is that they print a bunch of issue #1, then scale down the printing of the next issue based on sales of the first. Then scale up for subsiquent issues when they realize "oops, I guess people did like it!". But that's just a guess.

Speaking of Zombies, what happened to Black Panther? I seem to have missed something because when he shows up in issue #3, I don't have any memory of him being around prior.He's in issue #2.

[Everlost_MI]

[QUOTE=PacerDawn]They appear on a few pages in #24, the first Namor issue, but after that nada. At least not past #26, and I havn't seen any issues past that./QUOTE]

They are in #27 and it's pretty funny/interesting what they are doing with a certain F.F. member.

[Kefkataran]

My guess is that they print a bunch of issue #1, then scale down the printing of the next issue based on sales of the first. Then scale up for subsiquent issues when they realize "oops, I guess people did like it!". But that's just a guess.

That's part of it, but again that's mostly due to orders. Comic shops order about two months in advance, so there's time to do more printings if there's enough orders for it, but stores always order significantly less of a #2 than a #1, because #1s almost always sell just cause they're #1s and they're never sure how popular a #2 will be. Ahem.

Speaking of the Fantastic Four, did anyone see the solicit for the FF: A Death In the Family one-shot coming in May? Yikes. Apparantly it's for real, but I still find it unbelievable.

[Spigot]

Ah ha. I haven't read Zombies #2 yet... Just #1 & #3... My comic ninjas will be dropping off #2 this afternoon though, so I'll be caught up shortly.

[bardockkun]

I still think the best zombie cameo that got me the most giddy in seeing was Deadpool.

Also here's a fanboy comic question that just came to mind, if zombie Black Bolt (leader of the Inhumans and what not) can make the slightest noise that can destroy nearly everything, as a zombie shouldn't his open mouth moans (since every page he has his mouth open) cause someone's head to explode? Or are his powers just gone and there's a reason he has no thought balloons?

Also i'm guessing the death in the family thing is a tie into the whole Civil War crossover? Since Joey Q keeps bringing up how the Fantastic Four play a big role in it and helping it get started with the death of a hero or something.

[Kefkataran]

Ah ha. I haven't read Zombies #2 yet... Just #1 & #3... My comic ninjas will be dropping off #2 this afternoon though, so I'll be caught up shortly.

Well no wonder you were confused, silly. :p

Also i'm guessing the death in the family thing is a tie into the whole Civil War crossover? Since Joey Q keeps bringing up how the Fantastic Four play a big role in it and helping it get started with the death of a hero or something.

From what I understand from the Q questioning on Friday, it's related but not actually a tie-in. Like obviously it will affect the FF going into Civil War, but it's not specifically about Civil War, I don't think.

[Megalith]

What the hell. I just saw the Fantastic Four movie, and I thought it was fucking amazing. As usual, everyone was wrong.

I just thought it was really well written and funny. All the actors did a great job, especially Michael Chiklis and Chris Evans, who was somehow able to make even the cheesiest line sound good.

I also thought Dr. Doom was fucking awesome, frying people through the chest with electricity. I was shocked (no pun intended) when he first did it, because I didn't really expect that with the family-friendly tone of the movie. Doom is different in the comics, but I thought that the fused metal was a great idea that made him practical for film.

The movie did unfortunately feel rushed at the end, which was kind of expected because of how much time they spent unraveling their abilities (which was executed really well). I also thought that the transition into the scene where Doom put on his mask for the first time could have been edited better, because I had no idea what he was even looking at until the end of that scene.

The sequel should be awesome, since he is going to take over Latveria or something.

[Kefkataran]

What the hell. I just saw the Fantastic Four movie, and I thought it was fucking amazing. As usual, everyone was wrong.

I just thought it was really well written and funny. All the actors did a great job, especially Michael Chiklis and Chris Evans, who was somehow able to make even the cheesiest line sound good.

I didn't think it was too bad of a movie. Not perfect, but not bad by any means.

I also thought Dr. Doom was fucking awesome, frying people through the chest with electricity. I was shocked (no pun intended) when he first did it, because I didn't really expect that with the family-friendly tone of the movie. Doom is different in the comics, but I thought that the fused metal was a great idea that made him practical for film.


I'm okay with them changing his powers a little, but overall I just didn't feel he was as cool as he is in the comis. I may be biased, though, since Doc Doom is easily one of my favorite Marvel characters. I still have high hopes for what they could do with him in the sequel. Perhaps he'll regain some of his comic cool when he becomes the rightful dictator he should be?

[overdrivechao]

What the hell. I just saw the Fantastic Four movie, and I thought it was fucking amazing. As usual, everyone was wrong.

I just thought it was really well written and funny. All the actors did a great job, especially Michael Chiklis and Chris Evans, who was somehow able to make even the cheesiest line sound good.

I also thought Dr. Doom was fucking awesome, frying people through the chest with electricity. I was shocked (no pun intended) when he first did it, because I didn't really expect that with the family-friendly tone of the movie. Doom is different in the comics, but I thought that the fused metal was a great idea that made him practical for film.

The movie did unfortunately feel rushed at the end, which was kind of expected because of how much time they spent unraveling their abilities (which was executed really well). I also thought that the transition into the scene where Doom put on his mask for the first time could have been edited better, because I had no idea what he was even looking at until the end of that scene.

The sequel should be awesome, since he is going to take over Latveria or something.

Yeah good movie.... lets see lack of script... actors who could hardly do what they were paid to do act... the only possible saving feature was the computor animation..... Then again anyone who thinks that is a saving grace are the same people who willingly paid nine bucks to see DOOM..

You probably liked that one too huh?

The rain in Spain is mainly on the plain
<Auto-generated response to Dumbass Megalith Post>

[Kefkataran]

Yeah good movie.... lets see lack of script... actors who could hardly do what they were paid to do act... the only possible saving feature was the computor animation..... Then again anyone who thinks that is a saving grace are the same people who willingly paid nine bucks to see DOOM..

Admittedly, I didn't (and probably wouldn't) pay nine bucks to see it, but I still thought it was an alright film. If you were expecting an instant classic with great writing or superb acting, you were bound to be disappointed.

[Spigot]

FF had some neat bits and the actors did a pretty decent job of embodying the characters (Sue Storm and Dr. Doom aside).

It's definately not a steaming pile of dung, but neither is it a really good movie (see X-Men 1 & 2, Spiderman 1 & 2 and Hellboy for really good comic movies).

I just couldn't stand Jessica Alba as Sue Storm and I didn't like the way they did a wierd mix of the Ultimate origin of Dr. Doom with... something. Dr. Doom just wasn't that menacing or evil. He was just whiny in the movie and that just shouldn't be.

If they do a better job with the script for the inevitable sequel, I might not be so hesitant. It definately was not as bad as I thought it would be. It just didn't match up against the heavyweights of comic book movies. Good rental movie, but I'm not going to add it to my collection.

[Megalith]

"Susan, let's not fight..."

"No. Let's."

I cannot comprehend the extent of FF4's awesome and magical cheesiness.

The X-Men movies sucked. Well, they were enjoyable, but that's probably the one movie that goes way beyond the comics. Stupid shit like senators turning into blobs, a 16-year old Rogue, and other crap. Bryan Singer is a freak.

[overdrivechao]

I cannot comprehend the extent of FF4's awesome and magical cheesiness. The X-Men movies sucked.

disagree again.