Tag: 3 Star Reviews

On the eve of the 5-year anniversary of Something is Killing the Children and the 10-year anniversary of The Woods and Memetic, celebrate James Tynion IV’s iconic run of horror classics at BOOM! Studios in this exclusive FCBD special.

This comic book delivers a collection that offers glimpses into the creative mind of a renowned writer. At the same time this comic book showcases Tynion’s signature blend of horror, fantasy, and suspense, though it occasionally struggles to maintain consistency across its varied stories.

This comic book features a series of short narratives, each diving into different realms that highlight Tynion’s versatility as a storyteller. The strength of this anthology lies in its ability to transport us as readers into unique, atmospheric worlds. Tynion’s talent for building tension and crafting intricate plots is evident, providing engaging premises that captivate the imagination.

The character development varies across the stories in this comic book. In some tales, Tynion excels at creating complex, relatable characters who drive the narrative forward. These stories allow for deeper emotional connections, which had drawn me into the characters’ struggles and triumphs. However, other entries suffer from underdeveloped characters, making it challenging to become fully invested in their journeys. This inconsistency can detract from the overall impact of the anthology.

The artwork in this comic book complements Tynion’s storytelling with a style that captures the eerie and fantastical elements of each story. The illustrations are detailed and expressive, effectively conveying the mood and atmosphere of the narratives. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to depict both subtle emotions and dramatic action enhances the reading experience, which had drawn me personally deeper into Tynion’s worlds.

While this comic book showcases Tynion’s creative range, the pacing of some stories can be uneven. Certain narratives move swiftly, building suspense and intrigue, while others linger without significant development. This inconsistency can disrupt the flow of the anthology, making it difficult for me personally to maintain engagement across all entries.

The dialogues in this comic book are generally well-crafted, capturing the essence of Tynion’s characters and their worlds. Conversations are often sharp and impactful, driving the plot and revealing character motivations. However, some stories feature dialogue that feels forced or overly expository, detracting from the natural flow of the narrative.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

From the creators of the acclaimed TREES graphic novels, which are currently being adapted for television, comes something completely different. A professional pathfinder, his only ally a disaffected young murderess, breaks out of a torture cell in pursuit of his worst extraction scenario escaping on foot across a sprawling and secret off-world colony established a hundred years ago and filled with generations of lunatics. WARREN ELLIS & JASON HOWARD ignite a high-speed new action serial.

This comic book offers a fast-paced, action-packed introduction to a world of intrigue and mystery. At the same time this comic book sets the stage for a sci-fi adventure filled with high-octane moments and tantalizing questions about its unique setting.

The story in this comic book kicks off with a bang, following protagonist Mike Blackburn, a scout from Earth, who finds himself imprisoned on a secret off-world colony. The creators of this comic book create a narrative that is both thrilling and mysterious, with Blackburn attempting a daring escape alongside Grace Moody, a defector with insider knowledge. The plot moves swiftly, maintaining a relentless pace that have kept me engaged but sometimes at the expense of deeper character exploration.

The character development in this comic book somewhat limited due to the focus on action and plot progression. Blackburn is portrayed as a resourceful and determined hero, but his backstory and motivations are only hinted at, leaving readers curious but not fully invested. Similarly, Grace is intriguing, but her character lacks depth in this initial outing. Future comic books in this series hold potential for more character-driven storytelling, which could enrich the narrative.

The artwork is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the dystopian world of “Cemetery Beach” to life with gritty detail and dynamic energy. The illustrations capture the chaos and frenetic pace of the action sequences, making them both intense and visually engaging. The style of the artwork in this comic book suits the gritty, industrial aesthetic of the off-world colony, enhancing the atmosphere of danger and decay.

While this comic book excels in action and world-building, it occasionally sacrifices depth for speed. The relentless pacing leaves little room for exposition or exploration of the intriguing setting. We as readers are thrust into the action with minimal context, which can be both exciting and disorienting. More background on the colony’s origins and purpose would enhance the story’s complexity and reader engagement.

The dialogues in this comic book are sharp and functional, capturing the urgency and tension of the characters’ plight. The writing in this comic book is concise, using conversations to propel the plot forward. However, the dialogue sometimes lacks the depth and nuance that could provide greater insight into the characters and their motivations.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

The CIA has created an elite team of telepathic agents dedicated to fighting domestic terrorism. But as Connor and the rest of his crew take to the streets, can they handle the dark thoughts buried inside the minds of ‘we the people?’ Aspen’s newest hit series, MINDFIELD, comes to you courtesy of creator J.T. Krul who blends together a world of action and intrigue the likes of which you’ve never seen! Featuring an all-new 12-page story by newcomer Alex Konat, this zero issue sets the stage for the brand-new MINDFIELD #1 coming this June! Complete with an additional sketchbook section and never before seen art, this special MINDFIELD #0 issue is not to be missed!

This comic book offers a compelling glimpse into a world where mind control and telepathy intersect with espionage. At the same time this comic book is providing an intriguing setup that hints at potential depth, though it occasionally falters in execution.

The narrative in this comic book centers around a covert government program that trains individuals with telepathic abilities to combat threats to national security. The premise is fresh and engaging, blending elements of science fiction with the thrill of spy drama. The creators of this comic book effectively sets the stage, introducing us as readers to a high-stakes world where thoughts are as dangerous as weapons.

The main character, Connor, is introduced as a promising recruit with latent telepathic skills. While his potential is evident, the issue doesn’t delve deeply enough into his character to fully engage me personally. His motivations and backstory are touched upon but not explored in depth, leaving room for further development in future issues.

The pacing of the narrative is another area where this comic book could improve on in my opinion. While the plot moves quickly to establish the world and its rules, it sometimes sacrifices character development and emotional depth for rapid exposition. This has made it difficult for me personally to form a strong connection with the characters and their struggles.

The artwork itself in this comic book is the highlight of this comic book, because it is providing detailed and dynamic visuals that enhance the storytelling. The illustrations that we get in this comic book effectively capture the tension and intrigue of the narrative, with clean lines and expressive character designs. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey action and emotion through his art adds a layer of intensity to the story.

Despite its strengths, this comic book occasionally struggles with clarity. The rapid introduction of concepts and characters can be overwhelming, which has left me personally with more questions than answers. However, this also sets the stage for deeper exploration in subsequent comic books in this series, where the narrative can expand on its intriguing ideas.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

THE WICKED + THE DIVINE writer KIERON GILLEN teams up with artist supernova STEPHANIE HANS (THE WICKED + THE DIVINE 1831, Journey Into Mystery) for her first ongoing comic! DIE is a pitch-black fantasy where a group of forty-something adults have to deal with the returning unearthly horror they barely survived as teenage role-players. If Kieron’s in a rush, he describes it as “Goth Jumanji.” That only captures a sliver of what you’ll find in oversized debut issue—where fantasy gets all too real.

This comic book introduces us as readers to a compelling and dark fantasy world where role-playing games become dangerously real. At the same time this comic book presents a fascinating premise that captures the imagination, though it occasionally struggles with pacing and depth.

The narrative in this comic book begins with a group of teenagers who, in 1991, are mysteriously transported into a fantastical world through a role-playing game. The story then jumps to the present, where the now-adult characters are drawn back into the game’s dark realm. The writing itself in this comic book is atmospheric and layered, exploring themes of escapism, nostalgia, and the consequences of past actions.

The premise of this comic book is pretty intriguing, offering a unique twist on the concept of role-playing games. The idea of a game world that becomes real and the impact it has on its players is a fresh take, inviting us as readers to ponder the boundaries between fantasy and reality. However, while the setup is engaging, this comic book sometimes feels rushed, particularly in its transition between past and present. This can make it challenging for me personally to fully connect with the characters and their shared history.

The characters themselves are diverse, each bringing their own baggage and complexities to the story. The creators of this comic book hints at their individual struggles and the ways the game has affected them, but the limited space in this first comic book leaves some of these aspects underexplored. As a result, while the characters are intriguing, they lack the depth needed to fully engage me personally from the outset.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a highlight of this comic book, because it is creating a visually stunning and atmospheric experience. The artwork in this comic book has a rich and moody vibe to it that reflect the dark and mysterious nature of the story. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion and tension through her art enhances the narrative, which had drawn me personally into the eerie and fantastical world of “Die.”

The character designs we get in this comic book are distinctive and memorable, capturing the essence of each character both in the real world and within the game. The combination of the atmospheric backgrounds and character work results in a visually cohesive and striking comic.

Despite its strengths, this comic book occasionally struggles with pacing. The rapid shifts between timelines and the introduction of numerous characters and concepts can feel overwhelming, which has left me personally with more questions than answers. This can hinder full immersion into the story, though it also sets the stage for deeper exploration in future comic books in this series.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

When an accident gives Mitchell Hundred amazing powers, he becomes America’s first living super-hero. Eventually tiring of risking his life merely to help maintain the status quo, he retires from crime-fighting and runs for Mayor of NYC, winning by a landslide. And that’s where his adventure begins.

This comic book is an intriguing beginning to a series that combines the superhero genre with political drama. At the same time this comic book delivers a complex narrative that is both ambitious and thought-provoking, though it occasionally struggles with pacing.

The creators of this comic book introduces us as readers to Mitchell Hundred, a former superhero known as “The Great Machine,” who has transitioned into a political career as the mayor of New York City. The premise itself is unique, exploring the intersection of extraordinary abilities and public service. The writing itself in this comic book is intelligent and layered, delving into themes of power, responsibility, and the complexities of governance.

The narrative structure in this comic book is non-linear, moving between Mitchell’s past exploits as a superhero and his current political challenges. This approach effectively highlights the contrasts and parallels between his two lives, though it can be slightly disorienting at times. While the back-and-forth adds depth to the story, the transitions occasionally disrupt the flow, making it harder for me personally to immerse myself in the narrative of this comic book.

Mitchell Hundred is a compelling protagonist, characterized by his moral ambiguity and struggle to reconcile his past and present roles. The creators of this comic book skillfully develops his character, presenting him as a flawed yet relatable figure. The supporting cast, including political aides and other city officials, adds richness to the story, though they remain somewhat underdeveloped in this initial issue.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing a realistic and detailed aesthetic to the comic. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the gritty atmosphere of New York City, providing a grounded backdrop for the story’s fantastical elements. The artwork in this comic book excels in depicting the emotional nuances of the characters, enhancing the narrative’s impact.

While this comic book excels in concept and visual execution, it occasionally falls short in maintaining narrative momentum. This comic book sets up multiple plot threads and themes, but the pacing can feel uneven, with some scenes dragging while others rush by too quickly. This can make it challenging for me personally to fully engage with the story’s intricacies.

Despite these challenges, this comic book lays a strong foundation for future exploration. The blend of superhero elements with political intrigue offers a fresh perspective on both genres, and the moral complexity of the protagonist adds layers to the narrative.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Welcome to Craw County, Alabama, home of Boss BBQ, the state champion Runnin’ Rebs football team…and more bastards than you’ve ever seen. When you’re an angry old man like Earl Tubb, the only way to survive a place like this…is to carry a really big stick. From the acclaimed team of JASON AARON and JASON LATOUR, the same bastards who brought you Scalped and Japan’s Most Wanted, comes a southern fried crime series that’s like the Dukes of Hazzard meets the Coen Brothers…on meth.

This comic book sets the stage for a tale steeped in Southern grit and small-town tension. At the same time this comic book is offering us as readers a strong sense of place and atmosphere, though it leaves room for further character development and narrative exploration.

The writing itself in this comic book introduces us as readers to Craw County, Alabama, a place where football reigns supreme and secrets linger beneath the surface. The story follows Earl Tubb, a man returning to his hometown after many years. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is rich in local color and tension, capturing the feel of a Southern Gothic tale. The dialogue is authentic, with a raw edge that reflects the hardened lives of the characters.

The central theme of this comic book (confronting the past while dealing with present challenges) is pretty compelling in my opinion. Earl’s return to Craw County is fraught with unresolved issues and a community that hasn’t changed much since he left. The creators of this comic book effectively sets up these conflicts, hinting at deeper tensions that promise to unravel in future comic books in this series.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a highlight of this comic book, because it is capturing the rugged and gritty essence of the setting. The illustrations we get in this comic book bring Craw County to life with a stark, almost oppressive atmosphere that complements the narrative’s tone. The character designs are distinctive, reflecting their tough, weathered personalities. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion and intensity through the art enhances the storytelling, which had drawn me personally into the world he and this comic book has created.

While this comic book excels in setting and mood, it falls short in character development. Earl Tubb, though intriguing, is not fully fleshed out in this initial comic book. We as readers are given glimpses of his history and motivations, but these elements remain largely unexplored. This lack of depth makes it challenging to form a strong emotional connection with the protagonist from the outset.

Despite these limitations, this comic book hints at a rich tapestry of stories waiting to unfold. The blend of personal conflict, community dynamics, and Southern culture provides a fertile ground for future exploration. The potential for character growth and deeper narrative threads is evident, suggesting that subsequent comic books in this series may delve into these areas more fully.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Eisner-winning writer GREG RUCKA (LAZARUS, BLACK MAGICK, Wonder Woman) and critically acclaimed artist LEANDRO FERNÁNDEZ (THE DISCIPLINE, Deadpool, Punisher: MAX) team up together to introduce THE OLD GUARD, the story of old soldiers who never die…and yet cannot seem to fade away. Trapped in an immortality without explanation, Andromache of Scythia—“Andy”—and her comrades ply their trade for those who can find—and aff ord—their services. But in the 21st century, immortality is a hard secret to keep, and when you live long enough, you learn that there are many fates worse than death.

This comic book introduces us as readers to a world where immortality comes with its own set of challenges. At the same time this comic book is presenting an intriguing concept that captivates but leaves room for further development.

This comic book sets the stage for a story about a group of immortal mercenaries led by the enigmatic Andy. The premise is fascinating: soldiers who have fought through centuries, grappling with both the burden and benefit of eternal life. The writing in this comic book effectively establishes the core concept and provides a glimpse into the weary existence of these ageless warriors.

The narrative in this comic book had quickly immersed me personally in action, showcasing the team’s combat prowess and hinting at their complex histories. However, while the action sequences are engaging, the pacing feels uneven. The story moves swiftly through key plot points, leaving limited space for deep character exploration. As a result, I found myself wanting to know more about the individual backstories and motivations of the immortals.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this cocky book, because it is bringing the gritty and intense world of “The Old Guard” to life. The bold linework and dynamic compositions capture the raw energy of battle, while his distinctive style adds a unique flair to the visuals. The character designs we get in this comic book effectively convey the wear and tear of centuries, reflecting the characters’ experiences and emotions.

While this comic book excels in concept and visual execution, it falls short in character development. The immortals’ internal struggles and dynamics are only briefly touched upon, which has left me personally eager for more insight into their relationships and histories. This lack of depth can make it challenging to fully invest in the characters’ journeys from the outset.

Despite these shortcomings, this comic book sets up intriguing narrative threads that promise further exploration in future comic books in this series. The blend of action, immortality, and the philosophical questions surrounding eternal life provides a solid foundation for a potentially compelling series.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

In the BOOM! Studios 2016 Summer Blast, read all-new, original short stories of David Petersen’s Mouse Guard and Jim Henson’s Labyrinth. Plus, get sneak peeks of the upcoming new Adventure Time: Comics series, the Lumberjanes: Don’t Axe, Don’t Tale special, and this summer’s highly anticipated original graphic novel from Archaia, The Cloud. As a bonus, we’ve included preview pages from Goldie Vance, our newest BOOM! Box debut. There’s something in this Free Comic Book Day issue for everyone!

This comic book offers a collection of stories that showcase a variety of styles and genres. At the same time this comic book provides an enjoyable but uneven reading experience.

The anthology format in this comic book begins with Box Brown’s contribution, which is characterized by his distinctive, minimalist art style. Brown’s story is engaging and humorous, capturing the essence of his quirky approach. However, the narrative feels somewhat brief, which has left me personally wanting more development and depth. Brown’s ability to deliver humor and charm in a compact format is commendable, but the story’s impact is limited by its brevity.

David Petersen’s piece stands out with its rich artwork and detailed world-building. Known for his work on “Mouse Guard,” Petersen brings a level of craftsmanship that is visually striking. His story, set in a fantastical realm, is immersive and captivating. The characters are well-developed, and the narrative offers a satisfying blend of adventure and emotion. However, the complexity of the world may feel overwhelming in such a short format, which has left me personally wishing for more context and exploration.

Cory Godbey’s contribution rounds out the anthology with a whimsical and beautifully illustrated tale. Godbey’s art is lush and expressive, perfectly complementing the enchanting nature of his story. The narrative is simple yet evocative, capturing a sense of wonder and magic. While the artwork is a highlight, the story itself might feel too light for readers seeking more substantial content.

The anthology’s strength lies in its diversity, offering a range of genres and artistic styles that appeal to different tastes. Each story brings something unique to the table, showcasing the versatility of the creators and the potential of the medium. However, this variety also contributes to the issue’s unevenness. Some stories resonate more deeply than others, and the overall impact varies depending on individual reader preferences.

This comic book succeeds in providing a snapshot of the creative talent within the BOOM! Studios lineup. It’s an excellent way for new readers to sample different series and styles, potentially discovering new favorites. For longtime fans, this comic book offers a chance to revisit familiar creators and enjoy new material.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Hip Hop Family Tree Two-in-One by Ed Piskor is the perfect introduction and bridge to Piskor’s fun and critically acclaimed 5 volume book series! This full-color comic book offers two self-contained stories from Hip Hop Family Tree Volumes 1 & 2 as well as new guest pin-ups and content just for FCBD! Lovingly produced and designed in homage to Marvel Comics’ beloved Marvel Two-in-One – Make mine Hip Hop!

This comic book offers a nostalgic journey into the origins of hip hop culture. At the same time this comic book is balancing engaging visuals with a narrative that occasionally feels fragmented.

The concept behind this comic book is ambitious, aiming to capture the dynamic and influential rise of hip hop through a comic book lens. The narrative weaves together key moments and figures in the genre’s history, from the early days in the Bronx to the cultural impact that followed. This comic book’s passion for the subject is evident, and his dedication to authenticity shines through in the details.

However, the storytelling in this comic book can feel a bit disjointed at times. This comic book jumps between different events and personalities, which, while capturing the multifaceted nature of hip hop, can also make it challenging to follow for those unfamiliar with its history. The rapid shifts may leave readers wanting more context and continuity.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book. This comic book has an unique style, reminiscent of the underground comix aesthetic, adds a gritty and raw edge that complements the subject matter. The illustrations are vibrant and full of life, capturing the energy and spirit of the hip hop scene. At the same time the artwork in this comic book puts a lot of attention to detail in character likenesses and period-specific elements adds authenticity to the visual storytelling.

Despite the narrative challenges, this comic book succeeds in highlighting the cultural significance of hip hop. The creators of this comic book effectively conveys the genre’s impact on music, fashion, and social change, reminding us as readers of its roots in community and self-expression. This comic book serves as both a tribute to hip hop pioneers and an educational piece for those looking to understand its historical context.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its appeal to both hip hop enthusiasts and comic book fans. This comic book’s passion for the genre is infectious, and his ability to translate its essence into the comic medium is commendable. For readers familiar with hip hop history, the issue offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane, while newcomers may find it an intriguing gateway to explore further.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

The nostalgia-igniting hit Netflix original series comes to comic shelves. Follow Will Byers into a dimension of decay and destruction where he must use his wits and resolve to dodge the pursuit of the Demogorgon and escape the Upside Down. Written by award-winning comics veteran Jody Houser (Faith, Orphan Black, Mother Panic). Based on Will’s unseen journey during season 1 of hit Netflix show Stranger Things.

This comic book offers us as readers a brief yet intriguing peek into the world of Hawkins, Indiana. At the same time this comic book serves as a tantalizing appetizer that sets the stage for the full “Stranger Things” comic series, though it had left me personally craving more depth and substance.

Jody Houser, known for her ability to translate beloved television narratives into the comic format, brings her signature style to this ashcan. The narrative is concise, capturing the eerie atmosphere and suspense that define the “Stranger Things” universe. Houser effectively conveys the tension and mystery that fans of the show have come to love, setting up key elements that promise deeper exploration in the series.

Despite its brevity, this comic book introduces familiar characters with a degree of authenticity. The dialogues we get in this comic book captures the essence of the original cast, reflecting their personalities and relationships. However, the limited space means there’s little room for character development or significant plot advancement. As a result, this comic book feels more like a teaser than a standalone story.

The artwork itself in this comic book, while capturing the essence of the show, leaves some room for growth. The visuals effectively depict key elements, such as the shadowy environment of the Upside Down, but occasionally lack the detail needed to fully immerse me personally. The potential for more dynamic and expressive illustrations is evident, which could elevate future issues.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to evoke nostalgia while promising new stories. Fans of the series will appreciate the familiar elements and the anticipation of seeing beloved characters navigate new challenges. However, newcomers might find the ashcan less accessible, lacking sufficient context to fully engage those unfamiliar with the show’s premise.

While this comic book succeeds in generating excitement for the upcoming series, it also highlights the challenges of adapting a rich, detailed television narrative into a condensed comic format. The potential for deeper exploration of themes and characters is present, and it will be interesting to see how these elements are developed in the full series.

I Give This Book 3 / 5