“George Lucas: A Life” By Brian Jay Jones Review

On May 25, 1977, a problem-plagued, budget-straining independent science-fiction film opened in a mere thirty-two American movie theaters. Conceived, written, and directed by a little-known filmmaker named George Lucas, the movie originally called The Star Wars quickly drew blocks-long lines, bursting box-office records and ushering in a new way for movies to be made, marketed, and merchandised. It is now one of the most adored-and successful-movie franchises of all time. Now, the author of the bestselling biography Jim Henson delivers a long-awaited, revelatory look into the life and times of the man who created Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Indiana Jones. If Star Wars wasn’t game-changing enough, Lucas went on to create another blockbuster series with Indiana Jones, and he completely transformed the world of special effects and the way movies sound. His innovation and ambition forged Pixar and Lucasfilm, Industrial Light & Magic, and THX sound.

I need to admit here that I wanted to read this book for a while now, since as many of you guys who are frequent readers on this website might know is that am a huge star wars fan. So when I found out that this book was published I put it on my TBR list and now I have finally read it.

I really liked this book since the author of this book tries really hard to make George Lucas seem sympathetic at every stage of his life even thou George Lucas might not be the sympathetic person ever. Even thou at times George Lucas appears in this book to prefer spending time working rather than with his family or other people for that matter.

The thing that I liked a lot about this book is that this book contains a lot of behind the scenes information and fun facts about star wars movies and Indiana jones movies George Lucas created.

The writing style of this book is very good and easily my favorite part of this book. I have read a lot of biographies in my time on this website, and I gotta admit that a lot of biographies I have read so far have the most boring and text book like writing style. But this book on the other hand makes reading this biography fun and interesting. 

The only reason why I gave this book a 3 star rating is because I think that this book was entirely too long and I’m not that big of a fan of long biographies since I tend to get bored quickly of them.

But at the same time this book gives us a good explanation of George Lucas life and career. Which I really liked because I love star wars ever since I was 6 or 7 years old and watched star wars for the first time. I personally think that George Lucas is easily one of the greatest movie maker of all time.

The majority of this book talks about the star wars era of George Lucas’s life and we get a few glimpses of George Lucas’s life outside of being the creator of star wars like his divorces from his wife and childhood.

As you may have seen from this review so far, is that I have pretty mixed feelings about it. Because on one side I liked this book but on the second side I didn’t like this book. And I just can make up my mind on if I should write a positive or negative review of this book and I want to be as honest and forward coming as possible in every review I write on this website.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Overwatch #10” By Michael Chu & Miki Montlló Review

The holidays have arrived at Overwatch, and everybody is heading home to spend time with the ones closest to them. Meanwhile, a massive snowstorm has turned King’s Row into a winter wonderland, catching Tracer in the middle of an important mission, while at Watchpoint: Gibraltar, Winston contemplates the past year and the one to come.

This comic book delivers a mix of action and character exploration and it continues to expand the lore of the Overwatch universe, focusing on character dynamics and the complexities of their world.

The narrative of this comic book centers around a mission that brings together a diverse group of heroes, each contributing their unique skills and personalities.

The writing style in this comic book effectively captures the spirit of the Overwatch team, highlighting the camaraderie and tension that arise within such a diverse group. 

The interactions between characters are a standout feature in this comic book, showcasing their individual traits and histories.

The character development in this comic book is a key aspect of this issue. This comic book delves into the backgrounds and motivations of several team members, providing insights into their pasts and how those experiences shape their current roles. This exploration adds depth to the characters, making them more relatable and multidimensional.

The artwork in this comic book complements the narrative with vibrant and dynamic illustrations. The action sequences are particularly well-rendered, capturing the energy and intensity of the characters’ abilities. Montlló’s style adds a layer of visual excitement to the story, making the battles feel engaging and immersive.

However despite these strengths this comic book has it still faces some challenges like the plot can feel somewhat predictable. The mission follows a familiar trajectory, with few surprises or unexpected twists. While the focus on character interactions is engaging, the overall storyline lacks the complexity and innovation that might elevate the issue to a higher standard.

The pacing in this comic book is another area where the issue encounters challenges. Certain scenes unfold at a rapid pace, while others linger without significant development. This inconsistency can disrupt the flow of the narrative, making it difficult for me personally to maintain a steady level of engagement and interested in this comic book.

The dialogues throughout this comic book is well-crafted, capturing the essence of each character’s voice. There is humor and sincerity infused into the conversations, enhancing the character dynamics and providing moments of levity amidst the action. However, some exchanges could benefit from more depth, particularly in terms of exploring the emotional stakes of the mission.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Beast Tamer #001” By Suzu Miyama & Moto Shigemura Review

Rein, a beast tamer who fights with the help of animals, has been a member of the hero’s party for the longest time. However, unbeknownst to him, he was dragging down his teammates because he had no other abilities.

This comic book offers us an engaging introduction to a world of fantasy and adventure. This comic book sets the stage for a story about courage, friendship, and the bond between humans and magical creatures.

The narrative of this comic book follows Rein, a beast tamer who finds himself dismissed from his hero party for being perceived as weak. This initial setup creates a sympathetic protagonist whose journey of self-discovery and redemption becomes the heart of the story. Rein’s character is relatable, as his determination to prove his worth resonates with anyone who has felt underestimated.

The plot in this comic book, while enjoyable, follows a somewhat familiar trajectory of an underdog protagonist rising to the occasion. While this theme is universally appealing, adding unexpected twists or unique challenges could elevate the narrative and keep me and other readers on their toes.

The writing style in this comic book effectively captures Rein’s emotional journey, balancing moments of introspection with action and humor. The plot introduces a diverse world filled with magical creatures, each with unique abilities and characteristics. This variety enriches the narrative, offering endless possibilities for creative storytelling and character interactions.

The artwork in this comic book is the highlight. The illustrations bring the fantasy world to life with vibrant designs and dynamic action sequences. The character designs are particularly noteworthy, capturing the personalities of both humans and beasts with detail and creativity. The visual style enhances the overall reading experience, drawing readers into the magical world.

The side characters in this comic book while not deeply explored in this volume, show potential for development. Rein’s interactions with the creatures he encounters add depth to his character and hint at future alliances. These relationships are central to the story’s themes of friendship and cooperation, offering opportunities for growth and exploration in subsequent installments.

Despite the strengths of this comic book it still faces some challenges. Like the pacing in this comic book being pretty uneven, with certain scenes feeling rushed while others linger without significant progression. This can disrupt the flow of the narrative, affecting the overall engagement.

Additionally, while the concept of a beast tamer is intriguing, this comic book could delve deeper into the mechanics and limitations of Rein’s abilities. A more comprehensive exploration of the taming process and its challenges would add depth to the story and heighten the stakes.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Overwatch: New Blood #5” By Ray Fawkes & Irene Koh Review

As D.Va and the rest of MEKA Squad watch the Null Sector attack unfolding in Paris, D.Va requests permission to contact Overwatch. Korea has its own omnic threat to worry about though, so her request is denied. But when a new enemy turns the streets of Busan into a battlefield, MEKA Squad find themselves outnumbered . . . and out of time. Will wave after endless wave of omnics prove too much for even D.Va to defeat? Untold stories in the world of Overwatch! Made in close collaboration with the game team at Blizzard! Unveils how popular heroes were recruited to Overwatch!

This comic book wraps up the series with a mix of action and introspection, this concluding issue provides a satisfying, if somewhat predictable, end to an engaging arc.

The narrative in this comic book follows Cole Cassidy as he navigates the complexities of building a new Overwatch team. Fawkes does a commendable job portraying Cassidy’s journey, emphasizing themes of redemption and leadership. The story effectively captures the core of Cassidy’s character, showcasing his growth and determination.

The plot in this comic book balances action with introspection, offering a glimpse into the challenges of reestablishing Overwatch. While the storyline resolves the central conflict, it does so in a way that feels somewhat predictable. The lack of unexpected twists might leave some readers wanting more complexity or surprise in the resolution. Nevertheless, the conclusion is emotionally satisfying, tying up loose ends while leaving room for future adventures.

The artwork in this comic book is easily the highlight of this comic book, because it is bringing the world of Overwatch to life with dynamic illustrations and vibrant colors. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey motion and emotion enhances the narrative, making action scenes feel energetic and personal moments resonate with depth. The visual style remains consistent with the tone of the series, adding to the overall appeal.

The character development of this comic book is a strong point. Cassidy’s interactions with other characters are authentic and engaging, reflecting his struggles and victories. The camaraderie and tension within the emerging team are well-depicted, highlighting the diverse personalities and backgrounds of its members. However, given the limited space, some character arcs feel rushed, leaving certain relationships underexplored.

The dialogues throughout this comic book are sharp and effective, capturing the essence of each character. Fawkes infuses the conversations with humor and sincerity, adding depth to the interactions and helping to flesh out the characters’ personalities.

No matter the many good parts of this comic book, it still struggles with the pacing which is pretty uneven here. The need to wrap up the series in a single issue results in a hurried resolution, with certain plot points and character developments feeling compressed. This can detract from the emotional impact and left me wishing for more depth and exploration.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Aizawa-san Multiplies #001” By Seiichi Shiki Review

Shiho Aizawa is known to be an expressionless, mysterious, and fragile beauty. Our protagonist, Souta Mizutani, receives a sudden confession from her. But following this event, another Shino Aizawa appears… Twins…? No…Doppelgangers! See their relationships blossom in this fantasy rom-com!

This comic book offers us a unique and entertaining premise, at the same time this comic book introduces us to a world of unexpected twists and humorous situations, laying the groundwork for a potentially engaging series.

The story in this comic book centers on Aizawa, a high school student who suddenly finds herself able to multiply into numerous versions of herself. This bizarre ability sets the stage for both comedic and introspective moments as Aizawa navigates the complexities of her newfound power.

The main character in this comic book, Aizawa, is portrayed with charm and relatability. Her reactions to the strange circumstances she faces are authentic and endearing, making it easy for readers to connect with her journey. Shiki skillfully balances Aizawa’s internal struggles with the comedic potential of her situation, creating a dynamic and engaging character.

The side characters in this comic book while not deeply explored in this first volume, add flavor to the story. Their reactions to the multiplying Aizawa range from bewilderment to amusement, contributing to the humorous tone of the manga. There is potential for these characters to be developed further in future installments, adding depth to the narrative.

The creators of this comic book do a good job at creating a light-hearted yet intriguing narrative. The concept of multiplication is used cleverly to explore themes of identity and self-discovery. Aizawa’s interactions with her duplicates provide humorous and sometimes poignant insights into her character, highlighting her strengths and insecurities.

The artwork in this comic book complements very well the story’s quirky nature. The illustrations in this comic book capture the chaotic and comedic essence of Aizawa’s predicament, with expressive character designs and dynamic panel layouts. The visual style enhances the humor and energy of the narrative, making the reading experience enjoyable.

Even thou this comic book has some strengths to it, it doesnt help it to not face some challenges which it faces. The plot, while entertaining, can feel somewhat episodic, with a focus on situational comedy rather than a cohesive overarching storyline. While this approach suits the comedic elements, which have left me wanting more depth and progression in the plot.

Additionally, while the concept is intriguing, the manga could benefit from deeper exploration of the implications of Aizawa’s ability. There is room for more introspection and exploration of how her multiplication affects her relationships and sense of self, which could add layers to the story.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“The Amazing Village Creator: Slow Living with the Village Building Cheat Skill #001” By Shichio Kuzu & j1 Kaido Review

Presented with the Gift of Village Building, Luke, the son of a lord, is cast out of his domain in shame. He arrives in a barren land with plans to develop it and live a simple, quiet life. But suddenly, his mysterious Gift activates! Enjoy Luke’s amazing, slow life as his village grows, his Gift levels up, and his village-building capabilities transform. Along with his growth, Luke faces a variety of obstacles, including the quirky personalities of his own villagers!

This comic book gives us a delightful blend of fantasy and slice-of-life elements, as it sets the stage for an engaging story about creativity, community, and the joys of slow living.

The story in this comic book follows our protagonist, who discovers a unique ability to build and develop a village using a special cheat skill. This intriguing premise allows for exploration of themes such as innovation, cooperation, and the satisfaction of building something from the ground up. The setting, a magical world ripe with possibilities, provides a perfect backdrop for the narrative.

The writing style in this comic book effectively captures the protagonist’s enthusiasm and determination. The character is relatable, driven by a desire to create and improve the lives of those around him. This focus on community and collaboration is a refreshing departure from more action-driven narratives, offering a heartwarming perspective on problem-solving and teamwork.

When it comes to the side characters in this comic book, though not deeply developed in this first volume, show potential for growth and depth. Their interactions with the protagonist add color to the story, hinting at future alliances and challenges. The camaraderie and shared goals create a warm and inviting atmosphere, drawing me into the village’s evolving story which I liked a lot in this comic book.

The artwork in this comic book complements the narrative beautifully. The illustrations capture the charm and whimsy of the village and its inhabitants, with detailed designs that bring the setting to life. The visual style is inviting and enhances the cozy, slice-of-life feel of the story, making the world feel vibrant and accessible.

Despite the charm and good part this comic book has, it still faces quite a few challenges. One of them is the pacing being very slow and nothing really happening in this comic book. While the relaxed pace allows for world-building and character interaction but there isn’t anything more than that which would keep me interested and engaged in this comic book.

Additionally, while the concept of a village-building cheat skill is intriguing, the mechanics and limitations of this ability are not fully explored in this volume. A deeper understanding of the skill’s potential and constraints would add an extra layer of interest and strategy to the narrative.

The dialogues in this comic book are pretty much straightforward and serves to advance the plot and character relationships. However, there are moments where more nuanced conversations could enhance character depth and provide insights into their motivations and backgrounds.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Bloodshot, Vol. 4: H.A.R.D. Corps” By Christos Gage & Joshua Dysart & Emanuela Lupacchino Review

Out of the ashes of Harbinger Wars, Bloodshot is about to join the weaponized men and women of the Harbinger Active Resistance Division – the black budget, technologically-augmented strike force where the powers are dangerously unstable and every mission is a one-way ticket into the meat grinder. With a reluctant leader calling the shots and a new crop of untested rookies manning the frontline, Bloodshot is about to take H.A.R.D. Corps behind enemy lines, and into a gasoline-drenched, synapses-snapping suicide run where no one is safe…and heroes always die trying!

This comic book is an action-packed volume that offers both thrilling moments and some missed opportunities which I of course will tell you all about that in this review so if you are interested in hearing my thoughts about this comic book then keep reading.

The narrative in this comic book kicks off with Bloodshot’s integration into the H.A.R.D. Corps, a group tasked with high-risk missions. This partnership brings a fresh dynamic to the series, as Bloodshot navigates the complexities of teamwork and loyalty. The authors successfully explore the tension between Bloodshot’s independent nature and the structured demands of the Corps, adding an intriguing layer to his character.

The character development in this comic book is a strong suit in this volume. Bloodshot’s internal struggles are well-depicted, illustrating his conflict between his past as a lone warrior and his new role within a team. The authors delve into his psyche, giving readers a glimpse into his motivations and vulnerabilities. However, while Bloodshot is fleshed out, some of the supporting characters in the H.A.R.D. Corps lack depth, which can make them feel more like plot devices than fully realized individuals.

The plot in this comic book is more or less driven by high-stakes missions and explosive action sequences. The creators of this comic book craft a fast-paced narrative that kept me personally engaged with its adrenaline-pumping moments. The various missions serve as a backdrop for exploring themes of trust, sacrifice, and camaraderie. However, the storyline occasionally leans on familiar tropes, which can make some plot points feel predictable.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of the volume. The dynamic illustrations capture the intensity of the action scenes, while her attention to detail brings the characters and their environments to life. The visual style complements the narrative, enhancing the overall reading experience which I had with this comic book.

Despite all the good things I have said about this comic book so far in this review, I need to say that it also has some shortcomings. 

The pacing can be uneven, with certain sections feeling rushed and others dragging. This inconsistency affects the flow of the story, making it difficult to maintain a consistent level of engagement. Additionally, while the action is exciting, it occasionally overshadows character development and deeper thematic exploration.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Dark Mists #1” By Annika Eade & Lee Garbett Review

Kyoto, 1936. While a shroud of impending unrest hangs over Europe, in Japan the number of Yakuza members is close to outnumbering the Japanese army. In a government experiment, a group of geisha ladies are recruited to inform on the conversations they observe between the murderers and politicians. However, as untrained spies, the geishas’ actions result in one of their members’ brutal and bloody murder. Written by bright newcomer, Annika Eade, with the dazzling artwork of up-and-coming Brit star, Lee Garbett!

This comic book gives us an intriguing blend of mystery and historical fiction which I liked much more than I expected I would like before I read this comic book. But now after reading this comic book I gotta admit here that I enjoyed it much more than I have expected I would.

This comic book sets the stage for a story filled with suspense and cultural intrigue, though it leaves room for further development in this comic book series.

This comic book is set in 1930s Japan and it follows a group of geisha entangled in a web of secrets and danger. Which really made me intereste4d in the Japan and the stories about Japan. 

The narrative of this comic book effectively captures the atmospheric tension of the era, which had immersed me personally in a world where tradition and intrigue intersect. The setting is beautifully rendered, with the cultural backdrop providing a rich tapestry that enhances the story’s allure.

The main character in this comic book is a geisha named Kimi, is skillfully portrayed with a blend of grace and complexity. Her dual life as both an entertainer and a detective adds depth to her character, making her both relatable and intriguing. 

The creators of this comic book successfully conveys Kimi’s internal struggles and the societal expectations she faces, which are central to the plot’s unfolding mystery. Which made me give this comic book some extra points for.

The artwork in this comic book easily and very well complements the narrative, bringing the characters and setting to life with detailed illustrations. The use of shading and composition in this comic book effectively conveys the mood, enhancing the story’s atmospheric qualities. The visual style captures the elegance of the geisha world while juxtaposing it with the underlying darkness of the unfolding mystery.

But this comic book has also some challenges it faces which I also need to mention in this review. The plot, while engaging, can feel somewhat slow-paced in this initial issue. The focus on establishing the setting and characters sometimes overshadows the development of the central mystery, which have left me wanting more from this comic book. However, this groundwork is crucial for setting up the series’ potential, hinting at deeper layers yet to be uncovered

When it comes to the side character, I gotta say that they were interesting but could have been developed much more than they were here. As the story progresses, their roles and backstories will hopefully be explored in greater depth, adding complexity to the narrative. This would enhance the dynamics within the group and enrich the overall plot.

The dialogues in this comic book are effective in conveying the characters’ personalities and advancing the story. However, there are moments where the exposition feels a bit heavy-handed, which can detract from the natural flow of the narrative. A more subtle integration of background information could enhance reader engagement.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“The Brooklyn Kitty: Based on a True Story” By Sierra Sharp Review

Join Brooklyn on her adventures through New York City. A tough little kitty with extra toes, Brooklyn doesn’t let her uniqueness get in the way of the challenges she faces. Her story shows us that it’s okay to be different and make mistakes. Just don’t give up, and you’ll always find your way.

I gotta admit here that I expected this short story to be very bad, but after reading it I need to admit that it has surprised me in a good way. It wasn’t a good story but it was okay story which is still a much more than I expected this story to be. 

This story in a way captures the essence of urban life through the eyes of a resilient cat which is a unique and fun approach to writing a story about which have made me give this story some points for doing.

The story takes place in the bustling streets of Brooklyn, where a stray cat navigates the challenges of city life. This story has in a way vivid picture of urban landscape, using it as a backdrop to explore themes of survival, community, and compassion. The setting is well-realized, with the vibrant energy of Brooklyn contributing to the narrative’s charm. Which made me enjoy this story much more than I expected I would do.

The character development in this story is okay for the most part. The protagonist, a stray cat affectionately known as “Brooklyn Kitty,” is portrayed with warmth and personality, making her journey both engaging and relatable. It is very easy to get drawn into her world, experiencing her struggles and triumphs as she encounters various characters along her path. These interactions highlight the bonds that form between animals and humans, emphasizing themes of kindness and empathy.

The writing style in this story is pretty easygoing and straightforward, making the story easy to follow. The descriptions in this story bring the scenes to life without overwhelming us as readers but also it is creating a balance that appeals to a wide audience. The narrative is peppered with moments of humor and tenderness, adding depth to the overall experience.

But still this story has some shortcomings. The plot, while heartwarming, can feel somewhat predictable. The story follows a familiar trajectory of adversity and eventual redemption, which might not surprise frequent readers as myself. However, the simplicity of the plot does not detract entirely from the book’s appeal, as its emotional resonance remains intact.

Additionally the main character of this story which is the cat is well-developed, some of the human characters could benefit from more depth. Their roles often feel secondary, serving primarily to advance the cat’s story rather than standing out as individuals in their own right. This can lead to a lack of complexity in certain interactions, limiting the narrative’s overall impact.

The pacing of this story is generally steady, though there are moments where the story could benefit from more tension or conflict to drive the narrative forward. These instances of slower pacing have caused me personally to lose interest and enjoyment while reading this story. 

But it is very clear to see from this story that it was meant for younger readers rather than adults as myself. So I cant be too harsh on this story.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Farmhouse #1” By Elizabeth J. Musgrave & Szymon Kudranski Review

Sam Corneile, a drifter, returns home to take a job at a local mental institution where he discovers a group of patients being exploited under an art therapy regimen. While there, he falls for Helen, a feisty but troubled female who dares him to confront his past.

This comic book gives us an intriguing start to what promises to be a captivating comic book series. In a way this comic book gives us a interesting start to it mixed with eerie atmosphere and psychological tension which makes this comic book series seem have to a lot of potential.

This comic book is set in a remote, dilapidated farmhouse and the story of this comic book quickly establishes a sense of unease. 

The writing in this comic book writing effectively captures the isolation and haunting quality of the setting.

I gotta admit here that the farmhouse in this comic book feels like a character, with its creaking floors and shadowy corners adding to the suspense.

I gotta admit that the atmospheric storytelling is one of the novel’s strengths, which makes this comic book more fun for me personally. Because this atmospheric storytelling gives this comic book feeling of both familiar and unsettling.

The main character in this comic book has a troubled past is gradually revealed in this comic book but also at the same time the main character in this comic book gives us a compelling anchor for the narrative. Throughout this comic book we delve into the main character’s psyche, exploring themes of memory, trauma, and redemption. Which in my opinion makes the main character more relatable and interesting to follow his journey in this comic book because in a way this character-driven approach adds depth to the story and allows us as readers to connect with the protagonist’s inner struggles.

The character development hints at deeper layers yet to be explored, and the setting provides ample opportunity for future tension and mystery. Which I personally liked a lot in this comic book.

The artwork in this comic book complements the narrative beautifully. The illustrations in this comic book are dark and moody, enhancing the overall tone of the story. The use of shadows and muted colors creates a visual representation of the protagonist’s emotional state, further immersing us as readers in the experience which the main character of this comic book has.

However the pacing in this comic book is very uneven at times, with certain sections feeling drawn out while others rush through potentially significant plot points. In my opinion this inconsistency disrupts the flow of the story, which had occasionally pulled me out of enjoying the plot of this comic book.

Even thou the atmosphere is expertly crafted, the plot itself feels somewhat predictable. Because the narrative leans on familiar horror and thriller tropes, which can diminish the impact of certain twists and turns. And as someone who has read a fair share of horror books and watched a lot of horror movies I gotta admit that the majority of horror elements this comic book uses are very generic to horror movies and books which makes this comic book lack a lot of originality.

The creators of this comic book have created a world that invites curiosity which have left me eager to uncover the secrets hidden within the farmhouse walls. Which means that I will be at least trying to read more comic books in this series.

One of the standout aspects of the novel is its exploration of psychological themes. The creators of this comic book delves into the complexities of human emotion, using the isolated setting to mirror the protagonist’s internal battles. This focus on the psychological adds a thought-provoking dimension to the story, elevating it beyond a simple horror narrative.

I Give This Book 3 / 5