Tag: Comic Book Reviews

Award-winning Filipino comic, and now hit Netflix anime series! Foul play. Magic spells. Supernatural criminals. When the case takes a turn for the weird, the police call Alexandra Trese. The TRESE 2022 FCBD comic features a preview of the forthcoming TRESE Vol 4: Last Seen After Midnight TP, along with bonus material on the comic, including some of Alexandra’s journal entries chronicling her creature encounters and more. It also includes a sneak peek at THE ART OF TRESE ANIME, featuring art, sketches, photos, interviews and more on the making of the hit Netflix anime series, HC book coming out 2nd half of 2022 from ABLAZE

This comic book offers an intriguing introduction to the supernatural world of Trese. At the same time this comic book provides a glimpse into the dark, urban fantasy setting that fans of the series have come to love, while also serving as an accessible entry point for new readers.

This comic book is set in Manila, the story follows Alexandra Trese, a detective who specializes in crimes of supernatural origin. The writing in this comic book effectively blends Filipino mythology with modern crime noir, creating a rich tapestry of cultural and supernatural elements. The premise is compelling, offering a fresh take on the detective genre by infusing it with local folklore and mysticism.

The narrative in this comic book is compact, focusing on a single case that showcases Trese’s skills and the unique nature of her world. The creators of this comic book manages to convey a lot of information in a limited space, introducing key characters and setting up the atmosphere without overwhelming the reader. However, the brevity of the story limits character development, leaving some interactions feeling a bit superficial.

The artwork is a highlight in this comic book because it is capturing the gritty, shadowy atmosphere of Manila’s supernatural underworld. The black-and-white illustrations enhance the noir aesthetic, using contrasts and shading to create depth and intensity. The artwork in this comic book has dynamic panel layouts add to the sense of motion and urgency, particularly in action sequences, which are both clear and engaging.

The character design is another strength, with Alexandra Trese portrayed as both formidable and enigmatic. Her interactions with the supernatural beings that populate her world are visually striking, highlighting her role as a bridge between the human and mystical realms. The supporting characters, while intriguing, could benefit from more exploration to enhance their roles within the story.

While this comic book is successful in setting the tone and introducing the world of Trese, it does have some limitations. The plot, while engaging, feels somewhat rushed due to the constraints of the format. This can make the resolution feel abrupt, which has left me wishing for more depth and complexity in the storyline.

The dialogues in this comic book are efficient and often sharp, reflecting Trese’s no-nonsense attitude. The exchanges between characters are effective in conveying necessary information, but they occasionally lack the emotional depth that could elevate the narrative. More nuanced dialogue could enrich character interactions and provide greater insight into their relationships and motivations.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Bethany is a minstrel with a heart full of adventure, a would-be hero determined to find a missing boy from the town of Llyne, and a friend to all woodland critters. But mostly the dead ones. Because Bethany is also a necromancer. Captured by the vile Lord Rolland, Bethany will make an unlikely friend, who is all-too-good at providing more corpses to raise.

This comic book offers a captivating entry into a world of fantasy and adventure. At the same time this comic book introduces us as readers to a unique protagonist and an intriguing universe, blending magic, mystery, and a touch of humor.

The story in this comic book follows Bethany, a necromancer with a heart of gold, as she navigates a world where her abilities are often misunderstood and feared. The creators of this comic book create a narrative that skillfully balances action and character development, which had drawn me personally into Bethany’s journey with engaging storytelling and a fresh perspective on the necromancer trope. Unlike typical portrayals, Bethany uses her powers to help and heal, adding an interesting twist to her character.

Bethany is a well-developed protagonist, portrayed with depth, charm, and a sense of vulnerability. Her optimistic outlook and determination to do good in a world that shuns her craft make her a compelling and relatable character. The supporting characters, though not as deeply explored, add richness to the narrative and hint at potential for further development in future comic books in this series. 

The artwork is a standout feature of this comic book. The illustrations are beautifully rendered, with a style that perfectly captures the whimsical yet dark tones of the story. The artwork in this comic book use of expressive character designs and detailed backgrounds enriches the visual storytelling, making each page a visual delight. The art effectively conveys both the lighthearted and serious moments, enhancing the narrative’s emotional impact.

The pacing in this comic book is well-executed, balancing moments of tension with lighter, character-driven scenes. The narrative flows smoothly, that have kept me engaged from start to finish. This comic book sets up several intriguing plot threads, laying a solid foundation for future exploration and development.

The dialogues in this comic book is another strength. The creators of this comic book create conversations that feel natural and authentic, with a good balance of humor and sincerity. The interactions between characters drive the story forward and provide insight into their personalities and relationships. The dialogue captures the essence of the characters, contributing to the overall charm and appeal of the comic.

While this comic book excels in many areas, there are minor areas for improvement. Some aspects of the plot and world-building could be expanded upon, providing a deeper understanding of the universe and its rules. However, these are minor issues that do not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the comic.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Dark Lord Triumphant! Nicholas Harker is no more. His identity is now fully subsumed by Dracula. The one thorn in his side, Jill Hawthorne, has been effectively removed. Finally, the lord of all vampires and his Renfield are ascendant! The vengeful wiccan Cate, however, has plans of her own-to assemble a team of vampire slayers. Together with the broken-hearted Jill and Detective Murphy, and a new player on the stage who has every reason to seek vengeance, a final battle looms. Yet Dracula grows stronger by day and night, as he amasses a small army of brides from the dead. Is it too late to destroy him? Find out in this thrilling conclusion to the Dracula Everlasting trilogy!

This comic book unfortunately misses the mark. At the same time this comic book tries to wrap up the series with a climactic conclusion, but falters in execution, which has left me personally with an unsatisfying experience.

The story in this comic book centers around the final clash between the protagonist, Christopher, and the forces of darkness led by the resurrected Dracula. While the premise holds potential for an epic showdown, the narrative suffers from pacing issues and a lack of cohesive storytelling. Key plot points are rushed, resulting in a disjointed flow that makes it difficult for me personally to fully engage with the unfolding events.

The character development in this comic book, a crucial element in any narrative, is particularly lacking in this volume. Christopher, who should be the emotional anchor of the story, remains underdeveloped, with motivations that feel surface-level and uninspired. The supporting cast fares no better, serving primarily as plot devices rather than fully realized characters. This lack of depth diminishes the emotional impact of the story and makes it challenging for me personally to connect with the characters’ struggles.

The dialogues throughout this comic book often feels stilted and unnatural. The interactions between characters lack the nuance needed to convey their relationships and conflicts effectively. This comic book further detracts from the overall narrative, preventing key moments from resonating with the emotional weight they deserve.

The artwork in this comic book while competent, cannot fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations capture the gothic atmosphere of the story, but lack the dynamic energy needed to elevate the action sequences. Character designs are adequate but not particularly memorable, contributing to the sense that the visual storytelling is not living up to its potential.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book does attempt to explore themes such as power, redemption, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. However, these themes are not woven into the narrative with enough depth or sophistication to make a meaningful impact. The story misses opportunities to delve deeper into these concepts, resulting in a superficial exploration that lacks substance.

I Give This Book 1 / 5

Imagine being able to take over the body of anyone on Earth. Sound crazy? Not for Agent Drake and the Hardcore Program. They can turn any person into a human drone to get to targets that normal soldiers can’t. Drake is the best soldier Hardcore has to offer. But when he gets stranded in a body with only 72 hours to discover who’s hijacked the Program, he’ll have to pull out all the stops against an enemy who could be literally anyone.

This comic book delivers a gripping and innovative start to a thrilling series. At the same time this comic book introduces us as readers to a high-stakes world of espionage and technology, blending intense action with intriguing concepts.

The story in this comic book centers around Agent Drake, who operates in a program called Hardcore, allowing operatives to hijack the bodies of others to complete dangerous missions. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both fast-paced and thought-provoking, exploring themes of identity, control, and the consequences of advanced technology. The premise is captivating, which had immediately drawn me personally into a world where the lines between hero and villain are blurred.

The writing in this comic book excels in creating tension and urgency. The dialogue is sharp and efficient, capturing the intensity of the missions and the moral ambiguities faced by the characters. Agent Drake is introduced as a compelling protagonist, portrayed with depth and complexity. His internal conflict and dedication to his missions add layers to his character, making him both relatable and intriguing.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the high-octane world of “Hardcore” to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art style we get in this comic book captures the gritty realism of the action sequences and the technological elements of the story. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through facial expressions and body language enhances the storytelling, making each panel resonate with impact.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly handled, maintaining a balance between action-packed sequences and moments of character development. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the unfolding drama. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics without overwhelming me, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of the ethical implications of the Hardcore program. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, adding depth without overshadowing the action. The story challenges readers to consider the consequences of technological advancement and the moral dilemmas faced by those who wield such power.

Despite its strengths, this comic book could benefit from more exploration of the supporting cast. While Agent Drake is well-developed, other characters are introduced with less depth, which may leave some readers wanting more context. However, the strong premise and engaging action promise further exploration in future comic books in this series.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Hot off her breakout success at Marvel, two-time Eisner award winner ERICA HENDERSON (The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl, Jughead) teams up with KYLE STARKS (writer of sales beast Rick and Morty) for a hilarious twist on the hitman trope that will have readers laughing in the aisles over ASSASSIN NATION. The World’s Former Greatest Hitman hires the 20 best assassins in the world to be his bodyguards. These mean-as-hell hired guns and murderers must work together to keep the new crime boss safe while attempting to solve the mystery of who’s trying to off him. With the same laugh-until-you-cry spirit of action-comedies like Hot Fuzz, Tropic Thunder, and Deadpool, ASSASSIN NATION is the bombastic, side-splitting murder-fest you’ve been waiting for.

This comic book delivers a thrilling and humorous start to a high-stakes adventure. At the same time this comic book combines sharp wit, dynamic action, and a colorful cast of characters, setting the stage for an exciting series.

The story in this comic book kicks off with a bang as the world’s former greatest hitman, “Chekhov’s Gun,” hires a team of top assassins to protect him from a mysterious threat. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both fast-paced and engaging, blending action with comedy in a seamless manner. The premise is intriguing, which had immediately drawn me personally into a world where danger and absurdity collide.

The writing in this comic book shines with clever dialogue and character interactions that are both humorous and revealing. Each assassin is given a distinct personality, adding depth and diversity to the ensemble cast. The banter between characters is sharp and entertaining, capturing the chaotic energy of a group of eccentric killers forced to work together.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the vibrant and chaotic world of “Assassin Nation” to life with her bold and expressive style. The illustrations we get in this comic book are dynamic and energetic, perfectly capturing the over-the-top action sequences and the unique flair of each character. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey humor through visual storytelling enhances the comedic elements of the narrative.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly handled, maintaining a fast and frenetic rhythm that has kept me personally hooked from start to finish. The narrative flows smoothly, balancing action-packed scenes with moments of character development and intrigue. The creators of this comic book introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and entertaining.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to blend comedy with action, creating a unique tone that sets it apart from typical assassin narratives. The creators of this comic book embrace the absurdity of the premise, delivering a story that is both thrilling and fun. The comic’s exploration of themes such as loyalty, survival, and the absurdity of the assassin lifestyle adds depth without detracting from the humor.

Despite its strengths, this comic book doesn’t delve deeply into the backstories of its characters, which has left me personally wanting more context. However, the engaging premise and strong character dynamics promise further exploration in future comic books in this series.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

The Bowmans are VAMPIRES who have quietly run the local barbecue joint in their small town for years, living off cow’s blood. Their peaceful coexistence ends as generations of hate, fear, and bad blood bubble to the surface–making it impossible to separate man from monster! Critically acclaimed writer DONNY CATES (GOD COUNTRY) and artist LISANDRO ESTHERREN serve up the tale of a DIFFERENT kind of family just trying to get by, deep in the heart of Texas.

This comic book is a gripping debut that masterfully blends horror with Southern Gothic elements. At the same time this comic book introduces us as readers to a compelling narrative filled with complex characters, atmospheric art, and a fresh take on vampire lore.

This comic book is set in East Texas, the story follows the Bowmans, a family of vampires trying to live quietly and avoid trouble. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both intense and intimate, exploring themes of family, survival, and the struggle against one’s own nature. The plot kicks off with simmering tensions between the Bowmans and the local human population, setting the stage for conflict and drama.

The writing itself in this comic book is sharp and engaging, capturing the unique voice of each character. The dialogue is authentic and captures the Southern setting perfectly, adding depth and realism to the story. The Bowmans are portrayed with nuance, each member bringing their own struggles and perspectives to the narrative. This depth makes them relatable, despite their supernatural nature.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the gritty world of “Redneck” to life with a distinctive and evocative style. The illustrations in this comic book are raw and expressive, capturing both the eerie beauty and the underlying menace of the setting. In a way the artwork in this cocoa book has the ability to convey emotion through facial expressions and body language enhances the storytelling, making each panel resonate with impact.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly handled, balancing moments of quiet tension with bursts of action and drama. The narrative flows smoothly, maintaining a sense of suspense and anticipation throughout. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics without overwhelming me, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing.

One of the strengths of this coin book is its exploration of themes such as family loyalty, identity, and the consequences of violence. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the horror elements. The story challenges readers to consider the complexities of the human (and non-human) condition, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

The celebration of the 50-year anniversary of Star The Animated Series continues as the mad scientist Fontana plops Kirk, Spock, and company in a strangely familiar American high school in the middle of a strangely familiar love triangle between Artie, Bessie, and Verona. The crew must now tangle with a mad scientist and teen emotions…while searching both river and dale to find a way back to their own universe!

This comic book is an ambitious entry that ultimately struggles to deliver a cohesive and engaging narrative. While this comic book attempts to capture the charm of the original animated series, it falls short in several key areas.

The story in this comic book aims to blend the whimsical elements of the animated Star Trek universe with a new, intriguing plot. However, the narrative feels disjointed, with pacing that shifts awkwardly between scenes. The transitions are abrupt, making it difficult for me personally to follow the story’s progression or become fully immersed in the plot.

The character development is another area where this comic book falters in my opinion. Despite featuring beloved characters from the Star Trek universe, it fails to delve deeply into their personalities or motivations. The interactions between characters lack depth and often feel superficial, which diminishes the emotional impact of the story.

The writing itself in this comic book tries to inject humor and nostalgia, but the execution is inconsistent. Some of the humor feels forced, relying on familiar tropes rather than offering new insights or clever twists. While there are moments that capture the spirit of the original animated series, they are overshadowed by a lack of narrative cohesion.

The artwork itself in this comic book is visually appealing, effectively capturing the aesthetic of the animated series. The illustrations are lively, bringing a sense of vibrancy to the comic. However, even the strong visuals cannot fully compensate for the weak storytelling. The art serves as a reminder of the potential charm that the comic could have achieved with a more polished narrative.

The pacing in this comic book is pretty uneven, with scenes that either drag on without sufficient tension or resolve too quickly to create meaningful engagement. This inconsistency impacts the overall flow, which has left me personally feeling disconnected from the story. The lack of clear narrative direction further complicates the reading experience.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book does offer glimpses of potential. The concept of revisiting the animated Star Trek universe is intriguing and holds promise for nostalgic fans. However, the execution needs refinement to fully capture the essence of what made the original series beloved.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

A tale of blood, desperation, and loss. New York Times bestselling author LANDRY Q. WALKER joins artist JUSTIN GREENWOOD for an all-new ONGOING SERIES—THE LAST SIEGE! Spaghetti Western storytelling meets Game of Thrones atmosphere in this gritty medieval war story, as a mysterious stranger arrives at a castle overrun with brutal soldiers bent on usurping the throne of the rightful heir—an 11-year-old girl. An action-packed, genre-twisting epic, THE LAST SIEGE begins!

This comic book is a riveting introduction to a medieval epic. At the same time this comic book combines gripping storytelling, rich character development, and striking artwork, setting the stage for an unforgettable series.

The story in this comic book opens in a war-torn medieval setting, where a mysterious stranger arrives at a besieged castle. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative filled with tension and intrigue, which had immediately drawn me into a world on the brink of chaos. The plot is expertly paced, balancing action with moments of quiet intensity, and building anticipation for the unfolding drama.

The writing itself in this comic book excels in creating a compelling atmosphere, capturing the bleakness and desperation of the period. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, reflecting the harsh realities of a world ruled by power and survival. The characters are introduced with depth and nuance, particularly the enigmatic stranger whose motivations remain intriguingly unclear.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the gritty world of “The Last Siege” to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The use of bold lines and striking compositions enhances the story’s intensity, capturing both the grandeur of the medieval landscape and the intimate moments of character interaction. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through facial expressions and body language adds depth to the narrative, making each panel resonate with impact.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, maintaining a balance between action-packed scenes and slower, character-driven moments. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the characters’ fates. The creators of this comic book introduces key plot points and foreshadows future conflicts without overwhelming the reader, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as power, loyalty, and the struggle for justice. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story challenges readers to consider the complexities of leadership and the cost of freedom, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

All-ages action, fantasy, and humor! All-new stories that make great entry points to new worlds! Gene Luen Yang and Carla Speed McNeil deliver an Avatar: The Last Airbender adventure! Dr. Zomboss and Crazy Dave clash in a new Plants vs. Zombies battle! And the crafty Bandette stars in a tale of her own!

This comic book presents a mixed bag of storytelling. At the same time this comic book tries to showcase a variety of styles and narratives, but ultimately falls short in delivering a cohesive and engaging experience.

This comic book is divided into different segments, each with its own unique narrative and art style. While this approach offers diversity, it also leads to inconsistency in storytelling quality and engagement. The transitions between stories are abrupt, making it difficult for me personally to immerse myself fully in any single narrative.

Gene Luen Yang’s contribution, while promising, lacks depth and fails to capture the emotional resonance often found in his work. The characters are not fully fleshed out, and the plot feels rushed, leaving little room for meaningful development or connection. Yang’s usual talent for blending cultural themes with personal stories is not as evident here, resulting in a narrative that feels incomplete.

Carla Speed McNeil’s segment offers a distinct artistic style that is visually intriguing, but the story itself is somewhat disjointed. The pacing is uneven, with scenes that feel either too hurried or unnecessarily drawn out. While the artwork is detailed and expressive, it does not compensate for the lack of narrative clarity and cohesion.

Paul Tobin’s contribution attempts to inject humor and whimsy into the issue, but the execution is hit-or-miss. The humor often feels forced, relying on clichés rather than innovative or clever storytelling. The characters lack depth, serving more as vehicles for punchlines than as individuals with compelling arcs.

The artwork throughout this comic book varies significantly due to the different creative teams involved. While each artist brings a unique flair, the overall visual experience is jarring because of the lack of a unifying aesthetic. This inconsistency detracts from the potential enjoyment of the individual stories, making this comic book feel fragmented.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book does provide a platform for showcasing a range of artistic styles and narrative voices. However, the lack of cohesion and depth in the storytelling prevents it from being a memorable or impactful read. This comic book serves as a reminder that even diverse collections require careful curation and a strong narrative thread to truly resonate with me personally.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

The campy supernatural double feature continues, from the author of Aoi House! After months of hard work and practice, the vampire cheerleaders of Bakertown High travel to Las Vegas where they hope to win the national cheerleading championships. But things quickly go awry when team captain Lori Thurston turns up missing after a wild night on the town with her teammates. With no time to find their missing captain, the vampire cheerleaders must restructure their routine before the tournament begins. But a grim fate awaits Lori at the hands of a mysterious and deadly foe. Vampire High Stakes is the lead story from Aoi House creative team Adam Arnold and Shiei.

This comic book struggles to deliver a compelling narrative. At the same time this comic book tries to blend supernatural elements with high school drama, but falls short in execution, which has left me personally with an unsatisfying experience.

The story in this comic book centers around a group of cheerleaders who are secretly vampires, coupled with a paranormal investigation squad dealing with various supernatural threats. While the premise offers potential for an engaging mix of humor and horror, the narrative lacks coherence and depth. The plot feels disjointed, jumping from one scenario to another without adequate development or transitions.

The character development in this comic book is very minimal, with the protagonists lacking distinct personalities or motivations. The cheerleaders, despite their supernatural twist, come across as stereotypical and one-dimensional. The paranormal squad fares no better, serving more as plot devices than fully realized characters. This lack of depth makes it difficult for me personally  to connect with the story or care about the characters’ fates.

The writing itself in this comic book tries to infuse humor and wit, but often falls flat. The dialogue is clichéd and fails to capture the nuances needed to make the interactions engaging or believable. The humor feels forced, relying on tired tropes rather than original or clever insights.

The artwork itself in this comic book, while competent, cannot compensate for the weak storytelling. The character designs and settings are adequate but lack the dynamic flair needed to elevate the narrative. The illustrations do not fully capture the potential energy of the supernatural and high school settings, resulting in visuals that feel static and uninspired.

One of the few positives of this comic book is the potential for genre-blending, combining elements of supernatural mystery and high school drama. However, the execution lacks the necessary balance and finesse to make these elements work together harmoniously. The story misses opportunities to explore interesting themes or character dynamics that could have added depth and intrigue.

I Give This Book 1 / 5