Is summer already over? I can't believe how quickly it went by this year. I imagine that is something I say every year, but it also seems it gets truer every year. I've been watching my little baby girl growing for the last nine months, and they've gone by in a flash. I have to say though that in that same time, I've had the opportunity to read what I consider to be some of the best comics published to date. The outright quality of a lot of the material being brought to market these days is impressive. I'm thankful to be alive in a time where these things are possible. With that in mind, I've decided to change the focus of this column somewhat.
I'm not planning on spinning a complete 180 degrees, mind you, as I still plan on reviewing some comics for you. What I feel I need to do is not bother with telling you about anything I didn't enjoy. I don't need to bash anyone really, and would rather spread mirth and cheer throughout the comics community. If I read something dreadful, I shall be forced to do the worst thing I could: I'll give them no press. I don't think this will limit this column, though. As I said before, there is a copious amount of wonderful things read on a monthly, if not weekly basis from a lot of publishers, big and small. Here are my thoughts on a few of those books I've read recently.
A Dummy’s Guide to Danger (TPB) Written by Jason M. Burns
Art by Ron Chan
I was lucky enough to be able to read this series the first time through as the individual issues came out. I'm also apparently lucky enough to also get my hands on the trade paperback reprint of them so that I was able to read them again. The story was much better than I had anticipated. I went in with a big chip on my shoulder as I'm not really a fan of murder mysteries. Bring in a masked slasher though, and my curiosity springs to life. As soon as I got a good look at the villain, I was easily hooked. The other characters, both leading and supporting, were then able to win me the rest of the way over. I was quite impressed with the way they used the ventrioquist's dummy to add another character without really adding another character. It allows readers to take a look at a completely different side of the main character that wouldn't have worked any other way. I sincerely hope Viper has already signed a deal with Burns and Chan to do a second volume.
Dead @ 17 #1 - 4 By Josh Howard
Writer and artist Josh Howard is at the top of his game. I know you've heard it before, but, this guy is the best there is at what he does. If you haven't read any of his stuff yet, this series is a great place to start. Interesting characters, entertaining artwork, and a stimulating story. What more could you ask for? Call your retailer now. If you are lucky, you might even find some back issues.
The Expendable One – Volume 2 (TPB) - 'The Boob Versus the Boobs' Written by Jason M. Burns
Art by Erich Owen, Ryan Cody, Courtney Huddleston and Dustin Evans
I'm kicking myself over this one. Why, you ask? Because I missed the first volume from this title. Viper Comics has made sure that I'm again trying to track down some of their back issues along with reading as much of their current stuff as I can. That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed this graphic novel. We're treated to a story of an anti-hero that can heal his way back from virtually any wound. I know you are thinking, 'I've seen that somewhere before...' but I promise this is a new take on that idea. The humourous format used by the creators has allowed that to happen. This character is much easier to identify with than anything I've seen from superhero books of this nature. That makes a winner for me.
Find out more about this graphic novel: CLICK HERE
Oddly Normal: Family Reunion Written by Otis Frampton
Art by Sergio Quijada and Otis Frampton
I had been waiting for this to release since I finished the last page of the previous series. Quijada and Frampton's characters are charming and likeable which is really a fresh breath of air in these days of grim stories and gritty characters. The storylines and artwork would transfer very well to film, and seem to me to be exactly the kind of material that would make a great movie I could not only enjoy myself but would also entertain my children. At the very least, I plan on sharing this graphic novel with my baby girl when she is old enough.
Find out more about this graphic novel: CLICK HERE
Sidekickin’ Hero One Shot First Story
Written by Dale Mettam
Art by Drew Moss
Second Story
Written by Leslie Nichols
Art by Courtney Huddleston and Jeff Dabu
I'm disappointed with this title, and I'll tell you why straightaway: It is a one shot and I want more! I sincerely believe this would make a great ongoing title for Viper, or at least a miniseries. The two stories are about a superhero who wakes up each day with his mind as a blank slate. No memories of the past whatsoever. It is up to his sidekick to fill him in on a daily basis to ensure that he gets out and fights crime as he should be. It seems to me that this is a premise that is wide open to possibilities for future stories. I also think that it would be wonderful to see all the creators on staff at Viper getting a chance to work on the book. A different take on the character from everyone, a la Josh Howard's recent anthology, Sasquatch. We have a great start here as the two stories are by completely different creative teams. Let's hope they don't drop the ball and can get an ongoing series started soon.
You’ll Have That One Shot
by Wes Molebash
There are only two web comics I read with any regularity, and this is one of them. I'm quite happy that Viper also releases them not just on the web, but in printed form for those who like something they can hold in their hands. The collector in me needs that now and again. Lucky for me that is exactly what this issue offers. It is also a perfect introduction for new readers.
Dont feel like waiting until you can get your hands on a copy? Get yourself over to Viper now, and read some of the strips online! CLICK HERE
Hickee #3 Written and Illustrated by numerous creative folks
This humor anthology honestly reminded me of Mad Magazine, but with a little more edge as it is for mature readers only. I literally laughed out loud several times as I read through it. I think it would however benefit by adding more content in the way of extra pages. I for one would be willing to shell out a couple of extra bucks to get some more reading per issue. I think that would also allow for either the creators currently working on the title to get in some more work, or at the very least test out a few other folks. Anyhow, job well done for Alternative. I'll be on the lookout for the next issue.
White Picket Fences #2 & 3 Written by Matt Anderson & Eric Hutchins
Art by Micah Farritor
I read the second issue some time ago, but having just finished reading the third issue, I feel I have a very fresh opinion of these comics. Right away I'd like to say that there is a quirky charm to the artwork that I really enjoy. Somehow I feel right at home in the pages, and that isn't something I expected from a series such as this. I'm a longtime fan of superhero comics but in the last couple of years I've longed for something new and different. This series is exactly that. For those of you that are tired of crises, countdowns, civil wars and world wars: This is perfect for you. The story is well paced and intriguing and has absolutely nothing to do with superheroes.
Lone Ranger #8 Story by Brett Matthews
Art by Sergio Cariello
I just flat out love this series. I finish each issue practically drooling for the next installment. There just aren't that many series on the market today I would say that about, but this title is right now at the top of that short list. Buy it and read it.
Terminator 2: Infinity #1 Written by Simon Furman
Art by Nigel Raynor
The return of the Terminator to comics made me giddy all over. I've been a big fan of the movies for a long time, and enjoyed some of the comics along way, too. Not having seen much of anything for the last 6-7 years (other than the adaption for the third movie by Beckett Comics) I think it was about time some company latched onto this property and brought it back to life. With the string of hits Dynamite has had over the last couple of years, they were perfectly poised to take the reins, and offered up the talents necessary to make it a success. I think they have succeeded. The first issue was a fun read and ties into continuity well at the same time. Fans new and old should be able to appreciate this series.
Shazam: The Monster Society of Evil #4 By Jeff Smith
Loved it, loved it, loved it! I defy any fan of the old school 'Big Red Cheese' to not love this miniseries. I also defy any fan of Jeff Smith to do the same. The only bad thing abou tthis series is that it was only 4 issues and it's over now. I'd personally love to see much more from Smith as I think he has as good of a handle on the original intentions of these characters as any I've seen. If you missed these issues as they were released, make sure to get the TPB when it comes out. You won't be sorry.
Read more about the upcoming graphic novel reprint edition: CLICK HERE
FINAL THOUGHTS
I think I've said enough in this column. I'll be back with more soon, I promise (and this time I think I actually mean it). Until then, here is a picture of my baby girl.
I'm accepting any and all comic related submissions for review! Please e-mail me HERE for my policies and snail mail address. THANKS!
