DC Comics Thread

[ledfloyd]

All right, gang, we have got to discuss the new Freeze retcon/origin. Like it? Hate it? Rejuvenating change or a bastardization of his character?
love it.

[Sven]

All right, gang, we have got to discuss the new Freeze retcon/origin. Like it? Hate it? Rejuvenating change or a bastardization of his character?

One of the things I've always loved about Freeze is that he's got an air of gloomy romance around him. Turning that into dementia makes it uninteresting. I vote nay. Though I loved the hexagons reflected on his helmet.

[megladon8]

Is this in the annual?

[Acapelli]

One of the things I've always loved about Freeze is that he's got an air of gloomy romance around him. Turning that into dementia makes it uninteresting. I vote nay. Though I loved the hexagons reflected on his helmet.
yeah this is what i feel. the tragedy of his situation, while still there, is totally different and results in a character that is not nearly as sympathetic, at least to me. now he's kind of a boring obsessive nutjob

i don't hate it, but i don't like it either

[number8]

yeah this is what i feel. the tragedy of his situation, while still there, is totally different and results in a character that is not nearly as sympathetic, at least to me. now he's kind of a boring obsessive nutjob

i don't hate it, but i don't like it either

I'm gonna need to wait and see if Snyder has any plans for him with this setup. If this is it, then he and Tynion rejiggered a fundamental aspect of the most definitive version of Freeze basically just for a neat but cheap twist. I'm not sure it's worth it.

[Sven]

I'm gonna need to wait and see if Snyder has any plans for him with this setup. If this is it, then he and Tynion rejiggered a fundamental aspect of the most definitive version of Freeze basically just for a neat but cheap twist. I'm not sure it's worth it.

Is the twist really all that neat though? It's kinda borrowed from the School of Obvious, which is one of the reasons the whole ordeal is now less interesting. Though the flashback with the mother... that was interesting.

[Sven]

Is this in the annual?

Yes.

[number8]

Is the twist really all that neat though? It's kinda borrowed from the School of Obvious, which is one of the reasons the whole ordeal is now less interesting. Though the flashback with the mother... that was interesting.

Well, maybe I'll say unexpected instead of neat. Sure it's obvious in hindsight, but who'd expect them to change him that drastically?

[Sven]

Well, maybe I'll say unexpected instead of neat. Sure it's obvious in hindsight, but who'd expect them to change him that drastically?

Admittedly, I did hope that they would be smarter than that.

[number8]

Snyder's justification:


Appreciate all the kind things said about BATMAN ANNUAL #1. Also, all the thoughtful criticism. I know any change to a classic character...

...is going to be polarizing. And it means a lot to see people caring about Freeze as much as we do :)

And again, we weren't trying to be shocking. Just trying to take 2 parts of the character we love but that don't quite seem to fit together

- his desire to heal and thaw nora being one, and his desire to freeze the world being the other - and making them work together while also

making him more of a parallel to Batman*. In a nutshell :) Again, thx all for reading, and for the generous responses

The idea is that he falls in love with the cold for its power and beauty, but refuses to see its destructive qualities & limitations

* both obsessed w/something unattainable

[Sven]

Lame.

[Acapelli]

yeah, they way that sounds makes it seem there's not really too much more to it than what we saw in the annual

[Ezee E]

I'm not at the annual yet as I'm catching up on past issues, and absolutely loving it. I'm definitely one for longer stories, hence why I'm also liking the Swamp Thing/Animal Man storylines as well.

[megladon8]

While I, too, have always loved that deep romantic side to Mr. Freeze, something I've always found fascinating about Batman and his rogues gallery is that each villain represents an aspect of Batman's psyche, and is used to further explore Batman himself, rather than pure introspection.

It's often said that Batman is the most uninteresting character in the Bat-verse, but this I find wholly wrong because of this use of the villains to echo and analyze Batman's world view, morals and ethics.

Mr. Freeze was always, to me, an interesting yin to Batman's yang. Both Batman and Mr. Freeze are driven to extreme, psychotic behaviour because of their intense loyalty to their loved ones. That one is "good" and the other is "bad" is almost arbitrary. They are each, themselves, frighteningly obsessive caricatures of a supposed empathy for their fellow man, but whose own logic has twisted this empathy into something selfish that mocks their humanist ideals.

While I am cautiously optimistic to see what Snyder does with this re-imagining of Mr. Freeze's identity, as a one shot I found the issue to be a really cool examination of not only Freeze, but of Batman's most base drive to continue doing what he is doing.

[Sven]

Mr. Freeze was always, to me, an interesting yin to Batman's yang. Both Batman and Mr. Freeze are driven to extreme, psychotic behaviour because of their intense loyalty to their loved ones. That one is "good" and the other is "bad" is almost arbitrary. They are each, themselves, frighteningly obsessive caricatures of a supposed empathy for their fellow man, but whose own logic has twisted this empathy into something selfish that mocks their humanist ideals.

This is nicely put, and exactly why tweaking Freeze's loyalty into a product of outright dementia is so boring. Freeze is a good foil exactly because of his essence of romantic devotion, which is all but missing from Batman/Wayne.

[Sven]

Also, guys, gay Alan Scott anyone?

[number8]

Also, guys, gay Alan Scott anyone?

The reasoning to this is asinine. "His son was gay. Now that he doesn't have a son, let's make him gay instead!"

[sevenarts]

I just like how they hyped it up like some big announcement and then it's... an obscure old character being reintroduced in an alternate universe.

[Sven]

Well, I wouldn't call Alan Scott "obscure," but I do agree that it's all very silly. I'd like to see a mainstream character to whom gender and orientation are liquid concepts.

[number8]

I always knew it would be underwhelming. They were careful to say "iconic" instead of "popular" or "biggest" or "major." That pretty much said legacy character right there.

[megladon8]

Four more titles headed for cancellation in September, with four new titles replacing them. (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/dc-new-52-four-series-didio-phantom-stranger.html)



Talon
This new comic, which is being co-plotted by Batman writer Scott Snyder, introduces a new "anti-hero on the run" to the DCU. Calvin Rose, the only Talon to escape from the control of the Court of Owls, will be traveling all around the DCU as he is hunted by his former masters. While the story spins out of the Court of Owls storyline that is running through the first year of Snyder's Batman, the title character is a brand new one.

As the comic launches in September, Snyder will be working on plots with James Tynion IV, his co-writer on the Batman back-ups. Talon will feature art by Guillem March.


Sword of Sorcery
This new series, which DiDio described as "a new anthology book in the same vein as All-Star Western," will launch with the return of Amethyst to the New 52. Written by Christy Marx with art by Aaron Lopresti, the comic will show how Amethyst finds out she's the lost princess of Gemworld, and she's being hunted by her murderous aunt. The comic will launch with a back-up story about Beowulf and Grendel, written by Tony Bedard with art by Jesus Saiz.


The Phantom Stranger
Written by DiDio with art by Brent Anderson, The Phantom Stranger will spin out of the character's recent appearances in Justice League and DC's Free Comic Book Day story. It promises to tell more about the mysterious origin of the character who seems to have biblical ties and his connection to the purple-hooded woman Pandora.


Team Seven
Set in the early days of the DC Universe, Team Seven will show how the emergence of Superman touched off the formation of counter measures against superheroes. The comic, which is being written by relative newcomer Justin Jordan with art by Jesus Merino, will have a team composed of Amanda Waller, Dinah Lance, Steve Trevor, John Lynch, Alex Fairchild, Cole Cash and Slade Wilson.

[Sven]

Pass.
Maaaaaaaaaybe.
So pass.
Pass.

[number8]

Pass.
Maaaaaaaaaybe.
So pass.
Pass.

:lol: This is word for word my reaction on those.

[EyesWideOpen]

Christy Marx who is writing that Sword of Sorcery book created the Jem and the Holograms cartoon.

[megladon8]

Why the passes on "Talon"?

Especially 8, who has been digging the Owl stuff so much.

[number8]

It sounds like an uninteresting and lazy cash grab.

[number8]

BTW, I think Action Comics #10 might be my favorite issue so far. Man, boot Johns off of Justice League and give it to Morrison, already.

[Sven]

I'd be sad to see Morrison go back to the JLA. I'm sure it would be awesome and all, but it would be a hard comparison to his seminal 90s JLA material.

I say give Morrison a Flash book.

[Ezee E]

Snyder seems to be doing a huge amount of work. Is that common?

[megladon8]

Snyder seems to be doing a huge amount of work. Is that common?


For sure, especially since he's peaking in popularity. First "American Vampire" which was a critical and fan favorite, then the cult hit "Severed", and now an uber-successful and talked about Batman run and a "Swamp Thing" run that is the best stuff for the character since Moore (though that's really not saying much).

I gather DC is trying to get his name on as much as he'll take on right now.


And I gotta say I am interested in "Talon". At least, I'm interested enough to give it my three issue try.

[sevenarts]

I'll give Talon a shot since Snyder's at least tangentially involved (though not actually writing it), but I'm not too hopeful. The Talons are barely interesting as characters within the actual crossover - and most of the tie-in issues in other books were pretty boring - so I doubt this'll be very interesting.

I'll give Team Seven a shot too, because Justin Jordan just recently wrote a pretty decent miniseries called The Strange Talent of Luther Strode. Not sure how that over-the-top bloody aesthetic will translate to a DC super-team, but I'll at least take a look.

Snyder's Swamp Thing #10 was awesome. Francavilla should just draw everything. Or take over this book full-time anyway.

[Sven]

It would be hard not to give those books a shot when you're downloading them for free.

[sevenarts]

That is a fair point. I wouldn't buy any of them sight-unseen. But who knows, they might be good and then I'll buy 'em down the road.

[Sven]

Snyder seems to be doing a huge amount of work. Is that common?

It's not that unusual for a writer to be on three or four books a month. Brubaker, Aaron, Milligan, Ennis, etc. Comic Book DB says that in December of last year, David Lapham put out two issues of Crossed, two issues of DeadpoolMAX, an issue each of Ferals, Kull, and the Strain, as well as illustrating a feature in a Vertigo compilation.

What gets me is when artists pull it off, like friggin' Giuseppe Camuncoli.

[megladon8]

The first (and only) trade I have bought from the new 52 so far is "Red Lanterns".

I love this title so much.

[Sven]

The first (and only) trade I have bought from the new 52 so far is "Red Lanterns".

I love this title so much.

It only gets better. Weirder. Lovely theatrics. Props for the love.

[Sven]

Comic Book DB says that in December of last year, David Lapham put out two issues of Crossed, two issues of DeadpoolMAX, an issue each of Ferals, Kull, and the Strain, as well as illustrating a feature in a Vertigo compilation.

Also, I just saw DC's Sep solicits and it turns out he is illustrating at least that month's issue of Saucer Country, as well as currently doing commissions for the first time in his career. Workhorse.

[number8]

So with the addition of Talon, that's 13 monthly Bat-books in all, which makes up exactly 25% of the 52.

[Sven]

Sad that they are nixing Capt. Atom. :(

[Sven]

With Batman 10, I'm now teetering toward the side of "nay" on Snyder. It's a fever pitch of all of his annoying qualities (though the backup was admittedly good).

[ledfloyd]

With Batman 10, I'm now teetering toward the side of "nay" on Snyder. It's a fever pitch of all of his annoying qualities (though the backup was admittedly good).
I was initially pretty fond of him, but the more I read the more it comes to light just how repetitive he is. He relies pretty heavily on wistful narration that can be a bit trying at times. Especially when he tends to open every single issue with it.

For the majority of this issue I was wondering why you viewed it as a tipping point, but it becomes pretty clear in the last few pages. It's everything I didn't like about the ending to his otherwise stellar run on Detective. I blamed that on him having to hurry the ending to accomodate Flashpoint but now I'm not so sure. Just really awful, clunky, expository dialogue explaining everything that's happened in the preceding 9 issues and then the final reveal? Ugh.

I'm still enjoying Swamp Thing quite a bit and American Vampire as well (would you believe this week's issue doesn't have a single instance of narration?), but with Morrison back on Batman Inc. (and really, what is the Court of Owls if not The Black Glove or Leviathan gussied up with a cutesy Bats vs. Owls theme grafted on top?) the reasons to keep reading this book, especially after that horrific climax, are becoming fewer and fewer.

[Ezee E]

Batman 10 is sort of the reason I stopped reading comics many years ago. Hate silly twist endings like this.

[sevenarts]

Oof you guys weren't kidding. I usually like Snyder (and his Swamp Thing keeps getting better and better) but the ending of Batman #10 was abysmal, really makes this whole court of the owls thing seem terrible in retrospect. I can't believe this is where it was all leading.

[Ezee E]

Oof you guys weren't kidding. I usually like Snyder (and his Swamp Thing keeps getting better and better) but the ending of Batman #10 was abysmal, really makes this whole court of the owls thing seem terrible in retrospect. I can't believe this is where it was all leading.
Definitely nervous for its direction. The twist seemed like something that would be in the new (and ridiculously stupid) Detective Comics. What ever became of the Dollmaker anyway?

[number8]

Maybe I should've posted this here instead. (http://www.match-cut.org/showpost.php?p=426951&postcount=1335)

[megladon8]

Wow, that's very very cool 8.

Did you have those custom printed? Did you do it yourself?

Very nice work, either way.

[number8]

Those are regukar letter-sized paper. I just used the printer at the office.

[Ezee E]

Sheesh. Swamp Thing #8-#9 are quite nightmarish to look at. Incredible art.

[dreamdead]

As Batwoman nears the end of this narrative arc, I'm just not feeling Williams' and Blackman's treatment of time. It disrupts any momentum and offers so little payoff. And the kiss from last issue thankfully doesn't try to initiate a love triangle, it still seems weak and without enough pre-planning to justify it.

Oh, and these #0 in September are a stupid idea. Reminds me of the stupidity of Zero Hour from the early-'90s.

[Ezee E]

What's the #0's?

[number8]

What's the #0's?

Origin stories.

[Ezee E]

Origin stories.
Boring.

[ledfloyd]

As Batwoman nears the end of this narrative arc, I'm just not feeling Williams' and Blackman's treatment of time. It disrupts any momentum and offers so little payoff.
yeah, mccarthy is selling it better than reeder was, but it's still not very good.

[number8]

Batman 10: Wow, I feel like an idiot for not seeing that coming.

Owlman, duh, of course it's Thomas Wayne Jr.

Snyder ripped a page off of Morrison's book there, going back to the 70s like that.

[number8]

I've been so busy lately I hadn't picked up comics in 3 weeks. So much catching up to do!

[Raiders]

I apologize as I am sure this has been covered over the course of this thread, but I am curious which of the 52 are considered the most important or mandatory to follow. I have been away from comics (except for a few sporadic series, like RASL) for a while now, since even before DC did its overhaul, and am looking to get back into it. Knowing that I have about 9 or 10 months to catch up on, I obviously am not going to be able to get into the majority of the comics. With the exception of Batman and Justice League which I have already committed to following, are there others that are necessary either for amazing quality or for their tie-ins to those two comics?

[Acapelli]

wonder woman
swamp thing
animal man

[sevenarts]

wonder woman
swamp thing
animal man

that's more or less the essential list right there. many people seem to be down on batwoman these days but i'd say that's also still a good one. i'd also recommend action comics.

dial h was not one of the initial new 52 titles, so it's only had a couple of issues so far, but it's really promising.

[number8]

Batman Inc #2 was pretty awesome.

[Ezee E]

Swamp Thing/Animal Man is all I'm following.

What's Dial H?

Thinking of checking out some random issues of other stuff this week.

[ledfloyd]

Swamp Thing/Animal Man is all I'm following.

What's Dial H?

Thinking of checking out some random issues of other stuff this week.
give wonder woman a shot.

[Ezee E]

give wonder woman a shot.
I read the first issue and didn't really dig it. What got good?

[number8]

Also, Demon Knights is better than Swamp Thing, Animal Man and Wonder Woman combined.

[Acapelli]

Also, Demon Knights is better than Swamp Thing, Animal Man and Wonder Woman combined.
lol nope

[number8]

ftw yes

[number8]

Anyone checked out the first issue of Hurwitz taking over TDK?

[Ezee E]

Is that the Scarecrow one? I almost got it

[number8]

Is that the Scarecrow one? I almost got it

Yeah.

Also, Tony Daniel is leaving Detective Comics in #12. Whee! Maybe they'll get someone who can actually write a detective story to replace him.

[megladon8]

Also, Demon Knights is better than Swamp Thing, Animal Man and Wonder Woman combined.


So you don't like "Swamp Thing"? Or you just really love "Demon Knights"?

[number8]

I really like all three of those books. I just think DK is top-tier New 52, and superior to all three.

[megladon8]

Anyone checked out the first issue of Hurwitz taking over TDK?


So, was it any good?

I loved the cover art but I honestly didn't even notice the new writer. That book wasn't even on my radar.

[number8]

I didn't pick it up. I just read the enthusiastic response. Seems to be a step up from Jenkins.

[Acapelli]

I really like all three of those books. I just think DK is top-tier New 52, and superior to all three.
did it get any better after 6 issues?

it really seems like cornell shit the bed after action comics 700. his work has been mediocre to bad pretty much ever since

[EyesWideOpen]

When I dropped Saucer Country last week when I went in to the comic store the owner told me I was literally the only person who was pulling it.

[megladon8]

When I dropped Saucer Country last week when I went in to the comic store the owner told me I was literally the only person who was pulling it.


Yikes.

It's really too bad how badly this book seems to have missed the mark. I thought the concept was really cool, and I was expecting a great "X-Files" type conspiracy story.

It's been very, very boring.

[number8]

I thought the concept was really cool, and I was expecting a great "X-Files" type conspiracy story.

Hmm. I haven't read it, but that doesn't sound like the book Cornell wanted to write from the interviews I read of him. He said he wants it to be more about the Presidential campaign.

[megladon8]

Hmm. I haven't read it, but that doesn't sound like the book Cornell wanted to write from the interviews I read of him. He said he wants it to be more about the Presidential campaign.


Well even that's a far miss. 'Cause so far it's not about much of anything.

[sevenarts]

Yeah there are some scattered nice images or ideas in Saucer Country but mostly it's just very bland and slow. I keep hoping it'll pick up.

I'm very much enjoying Demon Knights but I don't think it's a top-tier DC book at this point. Just a fun, entertaining second-level book.

[number8]

Haha, Azzarello apparently negated Snyder's movie with his Comedian mini, I've been told.

Comedian didn't kill JFK. In fact, they were friends.

[number8]

http://media.dcentertainment.com/sites/default/files/Batman_Promo.jpg


“Joker is my favorite villain of all time,” Snyder told THE SOURCE. “Not just in comics. In everything - film, books, TV. He's the greatest, hands down. So this story is something extremely important and personal to me - something I've been building in my head ever since I started working in Gotham. Basically, this is my big exploration of the Joker, my ARKHAM ASYLUM or THE KILLING JOKE, only bigger in scope. Bottom line: it's the biggest, baddest, most shocking Joker story I could tell. This is Joker completely unleashed. He has been away for a full year planning this revenge, watching, plotting, setting things up. And now he's back. He has his traps set, his knives sharpened... And wait 'til you see him. Greg's sketches literally gave me chills. Point blank: This is Joker like you've never seen him before. He has a mission. He has a secret. And he has a serious axe to grind with Batman. It isn't going to be pretty, but it's going to be a wild ride. Thanks for taking it with us.”

“When Scott told me that he'd written a Joker story for our next arc, I couldn’t contain my excitement,” added Capullo. “Talk about a dream come true! For me, the Joker is the ultimate rogue and the villain I most wanted to draw. I gotta tell you, after hearing what the story is about, this isn't a dream come true. It's a nightmare! A macabre and bloody, flesh crawling nightmare. We hope you'll have the nerve to face what's coming. Warning: It ain't for the faint of heart!”

[Sven]

Much as I was resolved to stop Batman after the Court of Owls went all suck, I'm gonna give this Joker arc a go. I know I'm sounding like a broken record, but Capullo's doing great work and I kinda don't wanna miss it. That's a great friggin' teaser image.

[sevenarts]

Though I haven't been blown away by the whole Owls thing, it's one of the few times Snyder has disappointed me, and I'm definitely looking forward to that Joker story, which sounds promisingly more like Black Mirror than Court of the Owls.

Is that poster referencing Tony Daniel's Detective Comics? I didn't get very far with that, did I miss anything pertaining to the Joker after the first issue?

[number8]

Joker's been missing since he cut off his face in Detective #1.

[megladon8]

Anyone else notice right away that the mouth is straight out of "The Animated Series"?

So awesome?

[Acapelli]

that sounds awful

[megladon8]

that sounds awful


What about it sounds awful? We know nothing.

[sevenarts]

Joker's been missing since he cut off his face in Detective #1.

Huh. I wonder if Snyder just asked him to set that up.

[Acapelli]

that vague description basically says to me "bro you've never seen the joker more HARDCORE than this. shit's gonna be EXTREEEEEEEEEME!!!!!!"

[Ezee E]

that vague description basically says to me "bro you've never seen the joker more HARDCORE than this. shit's gonna be EXTREEEEEEEEEME!!!!!!"
More or less, I agree with this. But I'll take ambition from Snyder any day. Loved Night of the Owls, minus the last few pages of it all.........

[Sven]

Oh nice. DC Universe Presents is doing a five part Blue Devil/Black Lightning story.

Oh wait. It's written by Marc Andreyko. Never mind.

[EyesWideOpen]

Oh nice. DC Universe Presents is doing a five part Blue Devil/Black Lightning story.

Oh wait. It's written by Marc Andreyko. Never mind.

His Manhunter series > you

[Sven]

Dial H just got fifteen times weirder.

[number8]

Whaaa! Tony Daniel is being replaced by John Layman (Chew) on Detective.

That is one of the most surprising creative changes I've heard of in a while. That is a very left field choice. Super curious about how that's going to work out.

[sevenarts]

Not a fan of Chew at all and though I haven't read anything else by Layman, I can't imagine his writing style meshing that well with Batman. Still, can't be worse than Daniel.

[Grouchy]

So this event Flashpoint, huh, kinda cool, huh? I expected nothing and was rewarded with some very good characterization and dark ideas. I like that it isn't a pretentious event concerned with changing the status quo or the continuity. It's an Elseworlds adventure centered around the Flash. Once the good guys win, it's over.

The Azzarello/Risso Batman story was especially excellent, but almost every spin-off had some neat idea or badass moment to offer.

[number8]

I like that it isn't a pretentious event concerned with changing the status quo or the continuity.

Well, I mean... It was, strictly speaking.

[Sven]

Fabok and Layman can both do great comics. Probably will read it in trade.

That said, I'm a big fan of Daniel's Gotham. Sad to see him go as an artist.

[Grouchy]

Well, I mean... It was, strictly speaking.
What changed, exactly? I thought, at the end, everything went back to normal except that Batman and Flash now know that yet another Earth exists.

[number8]

What changed, exactly? I thought, at the end, everything went back to normal except that Batman and Flash now know that yet another Earth exists.

"The New 52" DC reboot is because of Flashpoint. Almost everyone's origin/history changed because of it. Flashpoint is the event that ended the previous DC continuity and made every book #1 again.

[Grouchy]

"The New 52" DC reboot is because of Flashpoint. Almost everyone's origin/history changed because of it. Flashpoint is the event that ended the previous DC continuity and made every book #1 again.
Aaaaah ok. I had no idea.

Well, now I like it a little less, but it's still a cool story.

[number8]

Ever classy, DC. (http://robot6.comicbookresources.com/2012/07/tony-isabella-on-dcs-new-black-lightning-words-fail-me/)

[Sven]

The newly solicited Batman, Inc #5 is apparently a return to Batman #666.

[Sven]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v350/iosos/burnham.jpg

Burnham continually amazes me.

[Sven]

Oooooooo, Masters of the Universe mini, The Origin of Skeletor, by J.H. Fialkov and F. Irving. Good times guaranteed indeed.

[number8]

Capullo's no slouch, either. Batman #13 cover:

http://media.dcentertainment.com/sites/default/files/BM_Cv13_R1.jpg

[Ezee E]

Well, I'm definitely sticking with Batman. Looks like they'll resolve this brother thing quickly.

[Ezee E]

Batman #11 sure ends silly too. Good run otherwise.

[number8]

Grant Morrison is not going to be doing anymore New 52 books after Action Comics #16 and Batman Inc #12.

He'll finish up Multiversity and his Wonder Woman OGN, but then he'll leave DC for the time being and go off to do non-superhero creator owned stuff.

[ledfloyd]

that's kind of an abbreviated run on action. i was expecting him to stay on for a few years.

[bac0n]

Damn I have both of those titles on my pull list.

[number8]

I don't know who else besides me is reading All-Star Western here, but the new version of Dr. Thirteen reimagined as a mustachioed Steampunk scientist in the 19th century is glorious. I've always liked the character, but this is even awesomer. It's one of the most radical changes in The New 52, and it turned out for the better.

[Sven]

I don't know who else besides me is reading All-Star Western here, but the new version of Dr. Thirteen reimagined as a mustachioed Steampunk scientist in the 19th century is glorious. I've always liked the character, but this is even awesomer. It's one of the most radical changes in The New 52, and it turned out for the better.

A few weeks ago I read the Azzarello Dr. Thirteen book. I think it's probably the best thing he's written. The thinly-veiled architects at the end were a riot.

[number8]

A few weeks ago I read the Azzarello Dr. Thirteen book. I think it's probably the best thing he's written. The thinly-veiled architects at the end were a riot.

I completely agree. Azzarello's love of puns in his dialogue translate well to humor. I don't know why he insists on being super serious about it most of the time.

[Ezee E]

Bah, thought Batman #12 was the return of Joker, but instead, it turned out to be a neat little stand-alone issue. Nice transition and surprise.

[number8]

Huh, I guess I shouldn't be surprised, and it makes sense, but didn't realize that Joker's return is going to be a crossover.

[number8]

He's returning in Batman #13 first, and then the next month Joker's plan ties into Batman, Batgirl, Catwoman, Nightwing, Batman & Robin and Red Hood & The Outlaws #14s.

Batman #14 cover:

http://media.comicbookmovie.com/images/users/uploads/10300/bm_14_02.jpg

Batgirl #14 cover:

http://media.comicbookmovie.com/images/users/uploads/10300/29478274829.jpg

[Ezee E]

Ugh, annoying. Is it all the same story? I can handle the crossover of Animal Man and Swamp Thing, but this is a bit much.

[number8]

Probably gonna be more along the same lines as the Court of Owls crossover.

[number8]

Pretty huge discounts on 1-year DC subscriptions. You can get the next 12 issues of Batman for $12.

http://slickdeals.net/permadeal/78452/discountmags.com-1year-dc-comic-book-subscriptions-justice-league-america-13-batman-12-green-lantern-12-catwoman-13-superman-13-aquaman-14

[EyesWideOpen]

Pretty huge discounts on 1-year DC subscriptions. You can get the next 12 issues of Batman for $12.

http://slickdeals.net/permadeal/78452/discountmags.com-1year-dc-comic-book-subscriptions-justice-league-america-13-batman-12-green-lantern-12-catwoman-13-superman-13-aquaman-14

As someone whose gift subscription to Batman just ended I thought I'd give the advice that if you care about condition of your comic or getting it in a timely manner I wouldn't go with the subscription service.

[Ezee E]

As someone whose gift subscription to Batman just ended I thought I'd give the advice that if you care about condition of your comic or getting it in a timely manner I wouldn't go with the subscription service.
How long does it take to get?

[Acapelli]

wonder woman is the best book of the new 52

[ledfloyd]

wonder woman is the best book of the new 52
i like the hint at the coming of the new gods.

her appearance in batwoman was pretty cool too. that book really sings when williams is on art.

[EyesWideOpen]

How long does it take to get?

I usually received issues 6-8 weeks after they came out.

[Ezee E]

I usually received issues 6-8 weeks after they came out.
Ew.

[Kurosawa Fan]

Trying to catch up while I'm still on break. I've realized that these are the perfect length for a nice distraction while my semester is killing me with work, so I'm in a mad scramble to pick up where I left off last winter and be ready for new issues this fall.

Caught up on Wonder Woman, which is awesome. Love the interpretations of the gods, especially Ares and Hades. Very excited to see how it progresses after the twist (which, admittedly, I should have seen coming).

Up to issue 10 of Batman. Mixed on this one. Court of Owls was ultra-cool at first, but sort of flew off the handle with the reanimating the dead. Still, I'm sticking with it, especially considering Joker is right around the corner.

I plan on catching up with Swamp Thing, Animal Man, Demon Knights, and Action before school starts up again. My son is reading ST, The Flash, and Demon Knights.

[Kurosawa Fan]

Crap. Forgot about All Star Western. I want to catch up with that, too, though I've only read the first issue, I think. Yikes. Perhaps I don't have enough time/money to accomplish this before school. Might have to put some off until winter.

[number8]

I wonder what the hell Tony Daniel's original plan for Joker was. From the interviews I've read, it was never Snyder's idea to remove his face and he's simply continuing Joker's faceless status when he's starting his Joker story. Was Daniel even going to build that into something, or did he just want the shock value and wasn't going to follow through all along?

[dreamdead]

her appearance in batwoman was pretty cool too. that book really sings when williams is on art.

I thought this most recent issue of Batwoman was pretty darned good. It seems as though we're at the peak of the writing quality, which is depressive after remembering how stark yet textured Rucka's writing was with Kate on the Detective Comics arc, but the art is indeed impressive.

I hope that Williams takes more away from the Gaiman collaboration as a writer, because I think this book could be so much more...

[number8]

I hope that Williams takes more away from the Gaiman collaboration as a writer, because I think this book could be so much more...

Well, I mean, he already did a 32 issue run with Alan Moore once.

[dreamdead]

Well, I mean, he already did a 32 issue run with Alan Moore once.

Whereas that series demonstrated Sophie's depth and growth, though, there hasn't been much comparatively here in Batwoman. Maggie has grown some, but Kate has experienced little growth. I'm afraid that the whole Chase narrative has rendered Batwoman herself more mute as a character, which isn't all that advantageous in terms of a story arc. And the WW appearance, while cool to see Williams playing with these archetypes and panel designs, seem like they too could occlude any growth on Kate's part.

We're getting story, but not growth.

[number8]

lol Rob Liefeld just walked off DC today. His #0 books next month will be the last issues from him.

https://twitter.com/robertliefeld

[number8]

The more I read about the behind-the-scenes at DC, the more my heart sinks.

I guess the reason for all the creative changes is not so pretty.

[Sven]

Anything specifically you're referring to by that?

[number8]

Not really, the Rob Liefeld fiasco yesterday is just getting me thinking, but it seems more of an overall problem.

Over the past few months, you've got creators like John Rozum and Chris Robertson walking out on DC (and Rob Liefeld too, even though he's on three fucking books, and is now calling his former editor a bitch on twitter), or just asking to be transferred from a book because of editorial interference (Gail Simone/Firestorm, Paul Cornell/Stormwatch). There are several others who got moved from books and didn't give a reason, and all of it just paints a picture of a really bad editorial job going on over there.

George Perez's account is probably the most damning:


Unfortunately when you are writing major characters, you sometimes have to make a lot of compromises and I was made certain promises, and unfortunately not through any fault of Dan DiDio, he was no longer the last word, lot of people making decisions, going against each other, contradicting, again in mid story. The people who love my Superman arc, I thank you. What you read, I don't know. After I wrote it... I told them here's my script, if you change it, that's your prerogative, don't tell me. Don't ask me to edit it, don't ask me to correct it, I don't want to change something that you're going to change again if you disagree...

I didn't mind the changes in Superman, I just wish it was the same decision issue 1 or issue 2, and I had to kept rewriting things because another person changed their mind, and that was a lot tougher, it wasn't the same as doing Wonder Woman, I was given a full year to get Wonder Woman established before enfolded into the DC Universe properly, I had a wonderful editor Karen Berger who ran shotgun for me. They wanted me to recreate what I did through Wonder Woman, but it's not the same age, not the same atmosphere, I couldn't do it any more, and the writer who replaced me, Keith Giffen, was very nice. I've known Keith since we both started in the industry, he called me up when they asked him to do Superman to make sure I wasn't being fired off Superman. And regrettably I did have to tell him I can't wait to get off Superman. It was not the experience I wanted it to be.


I had no idea Grant Morrison was going to be working on another Superman title.

I had no idea I was doing it five years ahead, which means … my story, I couldn’t do certain things without knowing what he did, and Grant wasn’t telling everybody. So I was kind of stuck. ‘Oh, my gosh, are the Kents alive? What’s his relationship with all of these characters? Who exists?’ And DC couldn’t give me answers. I said, ‘Oh, my gosh, you’re deciding all these things and you mean even you don’t know what’s going on in your own books?’ So I became very frustrated …

The Dan DiDio no longer the last word thing is interesting. I guess Jim Lee now has just as much clout as him, and then you've got the COO of the company (Geoff Johns) dictating the whole fucking direction of the DC universe.

It sort of explains why a lot of the creators being put in these books are newly snatched indie guys like Snyder and Lemire and freelancers. And if Rob Liefeld is to be believed, they are now opting to hire cheaper, more inexperienced, or foreign artists to keep cost low while still having books run on time.

[ledfloyd]

that doesn't bode well for the future of the new 52. as long as azzarello is writing wonder woman and williams is drawing batwoman, i'll keep buying dc books. but at this rate those might be the only two.

[number8]

Buy two trades get one free sale. (http://www.barnesandnoble.com/container/stores.asp?PID=42220)

[Sven]

Buy two trades get one free sale. (http://www.barnesandnoble.com/container/stores.asp?PID=42220)

Thought for sure you were gonna be posting about Judd Winick's exit from DC, but this is fine news too. May not be the worst way to pre-order my Absolute Final Crisis. Problem is finding two other DC books I want.

[number8]

Just found out. He's not going to be the last, I think. The chatter is that there will be a few more creative shakeups in the New 52 come the end of the year. Right now, the only ones considered legitimately safe are the Bat folks.

Although that is a silly thing to say since Winick was one of them.

[number8]

By the way, Rob Liefeld is going crazy on Twiter. He's engaging in public fights and namecalling with Scott Snyder and Tom Brevoort.

[Kurosawa Fan]

8, Sven, and anyone else far more experienced than myself: If you wouldn't mind, what books are a must for that DC sale? Right now I have The Dark Knight Returns, V for Vendetta, and a couple of the New 52 trades. What else is essential reading (aside from Watchmen and The Long Halloween, which I already own)?

[EyesWideOpen]

Alan Moore's Swamp Thing Hardcovers.

[Kurosawa Fan]

Alan Moore's Swamp Thing Hardcovers.

Is there an advantage to the hardcover over the paperback other than durability?

[EyesWideOpen]

Is there an advantage to the hardcover over the paperback other than durability?


Nope. The paperbacks are fine I actually forgot they came out with softcovers.

And go for the one's with this trade dress (http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/saga-of-the-swamp-thing-volume-1-alan-moore/1107855875?ean=9781401220839) if you do decide to get them. The old versions didn't collect all the issues and the new one's have great intro's.

[number8]

Well, Batman: Year One is pretty essential reading (do not get the Deluxe version), but it's a good idea to try things beyond Batman.

Saga of the Swamp Thing is an excellent choice, although if you're looking for something more standalone instead of a long run, I think We3, Kingdom Come.

[megladon8]

8, Sven, and anyone else far more experienced than myself: If you wouldn't mind, what books are a must for that DC sale? Right now I have The Dark Knight Returns, V for Vendetta, and a couple of the New 52 trades. What else is essential reading (aside from Watchmen and The Long Halloween, which I already own)?


If you're looking for some heady sci-fi stuff, you might like to check out Jonathan Hickman's Image stuff - "Red Mass for Mars" and "Pax Romana" in particular.

Also for a fantastic, globe-spanning crime/war saga epic, Garth Ennis' "Punisher MAX" practically can't be beat. I've gone on record saying I'm not too fond of Ennis' foul-mouthed shock value schtick, but this run was masterful.

[Ezee E]

Will have to check that sale out when I get home...

Anyone read the new Dark Knight? I like the Scarecrow intro from the previous issue.

[Kurosawa Fan]

Thanks guys! And good to have you back, Meg! Question: Is this Preacher (http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/preacher-garth-ennis/1100219139?ean=9781401230937) the complete run? Or just the first volume? Some of this stuff is pretty tough to figure out.

[number8]

Thanks guys! And good to have you back, Meg! Question: Is this Preacher (http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/preacher-garth-ennis/1100219139?ean=9781401230937) the complete run? Or just the first volume? Some of this stuff is pretty tough to figure out.

"Writer Garth Ennis’s violent, scabrous journey across America’s religious landscape continues in this third hardcover volume."

Helps to read the text on the page. ;)

[number8]

Second Justice League book coming out next year.

http://geek-news.mtv.com//wp-content/uploads/geek/2012/08/JLA-Large.jpg


Geek: I’m pretty excited about the roster for the team, but before we get to that, what’s the idea of the book? Why do they get together?

GJ: The idea of why the JLA forms, and what it is, and what it’s in reaction to... It kind of spins out of Justice League #12; what happens in that, and then subsequent issues, because JLA comes out next year some time. But the book itself is a group of heroes that aren’t necessarily coming together because they want to be together... They’ve been selected specifically. They all want, or need something that Steve Trevor, and the other person behind the scenes that’s in charge of this team can provide.

The first arc is going to deal with something they learn is called The Secret Society of Super-Villains.

Geek: I’m curious, how specific is the “Of America” part of the title?

GJ: It’s specific because its run by A.R.G.U.S. They have a team they feel they can now control. Whether or not that ends up being the case is up for debate.

[Kurosawa Fan]

"Writer Garth Ennis’s violent, scabrous journey across America’s religious landscape continues in this third hardcover volume."

Helps to read the text on the page. ;)

Goddammit. Could have sworn I read that and found nothing. Serves me right for skimming.

[number8]

Looks like Grant Morrison's long gestating Wonder Woman book is going to be released as "Wonder Woman: Earth One" OGN, with Yanick Paquette on art.

Paquette drawing Amazon bondage sex... Oh boy.

[number8]

Holy shit the new Green Arrow origin in #0 is fucking awful. What the hell was wrong with "spoiled rich kid stranded on an island" that they had to add this ridiculousness about him accidentally killing a bunch of people?

[Ezee E]

Any of the #0's good? Seems like a waste o time.

[Acapelli]

Any of the #0's good? Seems like a waste o time.
of the four i've read (action comics, animal man, swamp thing, dial h), none were particularly noteworthy

i've felt that way about all the new 52 books i'm reading for the last few months though, with a few exceptions

[Sven]

...dial h), none were particularly noteworthy

I don't know how you didn't think Dial H's issue was noteworthy. As emotive as it was creative as it was revealing as it was bonkers. Definitely a resonant issue.

[Ezee E]

Only reading Batman, Swamp Thing, and Animal Man right now.

[megladon8]

I don't know how you didn't think Dial H's issue was noteworthy. As emotive as it was creative as it was revealing as it was bonkers. Definitely a resonant issue.


I would use that to describe the whole series thus far.

Probably the most creative concept in all of the new 52. Even Mieville's missteps have at least been ambitious and interesting.

[Winston*]

Didn't know Mieville was writing comics now. Will check that out once it gets to trade.

Bought a few digital issues of the new 52 when it started, but didn't keep up because I couldn't stand reading on the computer.

[Ivan Drago]

Argh, the promo images I've seen of, and the articles I've read about Batman #13 are making the wait for it excruciating. I'm so excited!

[Sven]

Chiang's newly solicited Wonder Woman #15 cover... so good. Makes me want to jump onto the book.

http://i.newsarama.com/images/WW_Cv15_R1.jpg

[number8]

Fuck yes Orion.

[Acapelli]

you haven't been reading it sven?

[Sven]

Nah. I thought the first issue indicated potential future intrigue, but was clunky on its own, so I still haven't prioritized it. But now that it has turned into a New Gods thing...

[Acapelli]

it's hands down my favorite dc book, and the only one that has consistently improved every issue. issue 12 was just an absolute knockout

every other book from the initial relaunch/reboot has let me down

[Sven]

I am open to the idea that it's good, and will surely read it eventually.

But I'm telling you, all match-cutters, googlers around the world... Red Lanterns is so where it has been at. I included it in my ballot for Best Comic Book Runs over at CBR. Issue twelve was sensational.

[Acapelli]

i truly believe you love it, as do a lot of milligan fanboys i've seen on the net, but i just don't get the appeal

[Sven]

i truly believe you love it, as do a lot of milligan fanboys i've seen on the net, but i just don't get the appeal

What channels do you frequent? I've actually done comparatively little venturing onto other comics forums or review sites. I've never come across any other strong pro-Red Lanterns voices and I'd love to peruse anything they've got to talk about.

[sevenarts]

it's hands down my favorite dc book, and the only one that has consistently improved every issue.

I'd totally agree with this. While all the other DC books I like have been at least somewhat inconsistent, WW just keeps getting better and better. It's smart and stylish and so much fun.

[number8]

I still think the new origin is crappy and Azzarello's "a pun every 3 sentences" dialogue style is as stupid as ever, but it is a fun story, and the art is gorgeous.

It's no Demon Knights.

[Acapelli]

yeah, it's much better

[Acapelli]

pretty sure i've made that same exact post before

[number8]

pretty sure i've made that same exact post before

Not a problem. You're allowed to be wrong as many times as you like here.

[Acapelli]

i really love cornell, if only for his run on captain britain which was just perfect. easily one of my favorite comics of all time

but after he was done with lex luthor's action comics, starting with the reign of doomsdays, he's been in a steady decline. i'm kind of hoping his move back to marvel pans out and it reinvigorates him

[number8]

Best #0? I think Batwoman nailed it the most.

[dreamdead]

Best #0? I think Batwoman nailed it the most.

Yeah, the last narrative arc was starting to lose my interest, but this issue re-emphasized how important Kate's structure and narrative voice are, and how much the book loses when it doesn't utilize the power of her narration. This whole issue was well thought out, retained the archetypal power in Batman's appearance, and suggested a depth to Kate's character that had been missing a bit too much in the time-jumping of the last arc. I'm psyched for this series again...

And Williams can do Mazzuchelli-inspired work all day. It has such a cool texture to it.

[number8]

It was the fist time I felt that Williams got the Kate voice that Greg Rucka established. Definitely the most emotionally affecting issue so far. I agree that the comic needs more of her internal narration and less narrative playfulness.

I also feel like it utilizes this #0 month gimmick the fullest. I liked some others, but they all decided to use it as blatantly unsatisfying set-up for future issues (Batman), retreads of well-worn territory (Action Comics/Batgirl), explaining retcons (Teen Titans/Red Hood/Nightwing), or one-off adventures (Wonder Woman). Batwoman is the only one I can think of that actually tells an important origin story. I love the whole "I didn't leave Gotham as Kate Kane and came back as Batwoman, I left as a scared little girl and came back Kate Kane." Incredibly powerful stuff.

[number8]

lol Catwoman #0 actually canonized the stupid "thrown off a building and licked back to life by cats" origin from Batman Returns.

What are you doing, DC?

[sevenarts]

Batwoman was great. The only other #0 that has felt substantial and necessary was Dial H.

[Ezee E]

Glad I skipped.

[number8]

What DC is doing to Tim Drake is really sad.

[Sven]

What DC is doing to Tim Drake is really sad.

Spoil it for me. I've heard rumblings but have gleaned no details.

[number8]

Spoil it for me. I've heard rumblings but have gleaned no details.

He's pretty much a brand new character now. They took away most of his defining things.

- We've known that he was never Robin, he went straight to Red Robin. #0 revealed why: Batman was so traumatized by Jason's death that he doesn't want another Robin. But hey, he can be Red Robin instead.

- He's not an orphan. Penguin put out a hit on his parents so the FBI put them in WitSec. They don't want Tim to live in the middle of nowhere, so they asked Batman to adopt him before leaving.

- He didn't figure out Batman and Nightwing's identity like in his previous origin. Batman knew what he was up to, gave him false clues to trick him, and then only taking him on because of the Penguin thing.

- Here's the kicker. His name isn't even really Drake now. "Tim Drake" is the fake identity Batman gave him to protect him from Penguin. lolwut?

[number8]

Here's a pretty good essay on why Wonder Woman #0 (and Azzarello's retcons in general) was somewhat incompatible with her role as a feminist ideal:

http://www.comicvine.com/news/who-is-wonder-woman-a-look-at-the-character-pre-and-post-new-52/145252/

[Sven]

Here's a pretty good essay on why Wonder Woman #0 (and Azzarello's retcons in general) was somewhat incompatible with her role as a feminist ideal:

http://www.comicvine.com/news/who-is-wonder-woman-a-look-at-the-character-pre-and-post-new-52/145252/

Doesn't surprise me that Azzarello has transformed the foundation of Wonder Woman's power into testosterone.

[Grouchy]

I can't believe that post about Tim Drake, it made my soul hurt. Doesn't ANYONE at DC realize all this New 52 horseshit completely alienates readers?

[number8]

I can't believe that post about Tim Drake, it made my soul hurt. Doesn't ANYONE at DC realize all this New 52 horseshit completely alienates readers?

Sales have greatly improved in the past year. That's really the only thing they're listening to. They are a corporation, after all.

[number8]

One page preview from Batman #13. Great teaser.

http://htmlimg4.scribdassets.com/4zhdvymfuo1uxo3z/images/4-a598a00c84.jpg

[Ezee E]

Looking forward to it. I'm planning on finding a comic shop and purchasing the issue instead of having it online.

[Ezee E]

Detective Comics is bringing on the Penguin. I read it, and liked it compared to the ridiculousness that was in the first few issues of Detective Comics, but was still pretty.... Meh. The Red Dragons seem a lot like the Owls.

[Ezee E]

Purchased Batman #13 at a comic book store. The store had nearly an entire row dedicated for it.

This is the first time I've actually purchased an issue in well over 15 years. Haven't read it yet.

[Ezee E]

It's good. Creepy even, with the scene that 8 posted an excerpt from earlier. Nothing ridiculous in it either. I look forward to the next few months.

[Acapelli]

i've dropped a good chunk of the new 52 books i've been reading. list of what's survived:

dial h
batwoman (probably only until the end of this arc, since it's supposed to be the last one jh williams is drawing)
wonder woman
batman inc
action comics (until morrison's run is over)
justice league (and this is going down as soon as the crossover with aquaman starts)

[Sven]

Now that Captain Atom has (sadly) ended, the only DC books I'm getting are Batman Inc, Action, Stormwatch, Red Lanterns, and Dial H. The amount that I like each of those books, though, is significant enough. All weird ones. Kind of took me by surprise when I realized how much more Marvel I'm getting than DC, because I vastly prefer the pantheon and dynamics of the DCU to that of Marvel's.

That said, I have a feeling that over the next few months, my Marvel pulls will be significantly weakened, too. Hickman's Avengers, Remender's Avengers, Aaron's Thor, and... maybe that's it. Hopefully Lapham's Age of Apocalypse sticks around.

[Sven]

I guess Keith Giffen is doing a cosmic New 52 series starting in January called Threshold. That's exciting! Scott Kolins and Tom Raney, two of my favorites, doing feature and backup (backup starring Larfleeze).

I will probably get this too.

[bac0n]

Anybody read Flash Zero and/or Red Lanterns Zero? Both were good, fleshing out the origin stories in much the same way Batwoman Zero did. Those three were probably the only Zeros that really did it for me.

[Sven]

Anybody read Flash Zero and/or Red Lanterns Zero? Both were good, fleshing out the origin stories in much the same way Batwoman Zero did. Those three were probably the only Zeros that really did it for me.

The opening page of Red Lanterns 0 is one of the best images of the series. The rest was retreading, but I'm not gonna complain. Have you been reading that one?

[ledfloyd]

i've dropped a good chunk of the new 52 books i've been reading. list of what's survived:

dial h
batwoman (probably only until the end of this arc, since it's supposed to be the last one jh williams is drawing)
wonder woman
batman inc
action comics (until morrison's run is over)
justice league (and this is going down as soon as the crossover with aquaman starts)
i'm down to action comics, batwoman, batman inc, and wonder woman. and i'll be dropping the two morrison titles when he leaves them. snyder's batman turned me off with the owlman reveal, and i'm growing tired of swamp thing and animal man for whatever reason. perhaps i'll pick them back up in the future. the #0 month interrupting the ongoing storylines just made me go ahead and drop the books i wasn't sure i was totally in love with. so thanks dc.

[number8]

I just dropped JLD. Lemire just does not have a good handle on the characters. His Constantine is the most boring Constantine I've ever read.

[bac0n]

The opening page of Red Lanterns 0 is one of the best images of the series. The rest was retreading, but I'm not gonna complain. Have you been reading that one?

Yup, I've been following Red Lanterns from the first issue. I love them for basically the same reasons you do, which is why I haven't really chimed in with anything.

[number8]

My issue with the portrayal of Wonder Woman in Batwoman, and I suspect in other books, too, is that they're too hung up on the "daughter of Zeus" thing. I mean, she just found out about this very recently, and it's supposed to be a huge secret, but for some reason everyone's now acting like it's written on her forehead. Batwoman repeatedly calls her a "demigod", people they encounter just casually goes, "The daughter of Zeus?" and even Diana uncharacteristically seems to be defining herself as Olympian ancestry in her head. What, did she put out a press release? It's fine on her book since it's part of the plot, but having everyone beat the "daughter of Zeus" thing over and over is offputting. She, and others, should be thinking of Wonder Woman as first and foremost an Amazon, not a demigod.

[number8]

Hot.

http://comicsbeat.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/New-God-Orion-Cliff-Chiang-2.jpg

http://comicsbeat.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/New-God-Orion-Cliff-Chiang-3.jpg

[Ezee E]

I'm getting into Dark Knight with its inclusion of Scarecrow. It was horrible initially.

And, I like the story that Superman is doing, but its direction of the issue seems kinda odd. Don't know what to say.

[number8]

lol Geoff Johns and David Finch's JLA #1 will have 52 variant covers. One for each state, plus Washington DC and Puerto Rico.

[number8]

I don't know why this made me so happy, but it did.

http://www.dccomics.com/blog/2012/11/05/dc-comics-and-neil-degrasse-tyson-put-krypton-on-the-map-with-historic-superman


In the explosive back-up story for ACTION COMICS #14 titled “Star Light, Star Bright”, world-renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson helps Superman find his home planet of Krypton on its final day of existence. Today, Dr. Tyson announces an actual location for a Krypton-like system in our known universe. ACTION COMICS #14 hits stores on November 7.

"This is a major milestone in the Superman mythos that gives our Super Hero a place in the universe,” said DC Entertainment co-publisher, Dan DiDio. "Having Neil deGrasse Tyson in the book was one thing, but by applying real world science to this story he has forever changed Superman’s place in history. Now fans will be able to look up at the night’s sky and say – ‘that’s where Superman was born’."

The red dwarf star designated for having the ability to support a Krypton-like planet is located in the constellation Corvus 27.1 light years from Earth. The star, designated LHS 2520, possesses a red, highly turbulent surface, somewhat cooler and smaller than the Sun. To find it in the night’s sky, amateur astronomers and Superman fans can follow these coordinates:

J2000
Right Ascension: 12 hours 10 minutes 5.77 seconds
Declination: -15 degrees 4 minutes 17.9 seconds
Proper Motion: 0.76 arcseconds per year, along 172.94 degrees from due north

Can't wait to read it this Wednesday.

[number8]

Batman #14 was very nicely done.

[number8]

Jeff Lemire actually had Constantine being called "Hellblazer" in dialogue.

:|

[Ezee E]

"Death of the Family" is still in its starting stages, but the crossover annoys me. How can Joker be in that many places at once?

Suicide Squad was a waste of time if it weren't for the scene with the Joker. That was excellent.

Batman and Batgirl are both very good, just hard imagining them happening at the same time is all. Batman's story is probably the better one when it's all said and done. Look forward to both of those stories.

Trying to decide between Batman and Batgirl 14 as my issue of the week.

[number8]

Well, unlike Night of the Owls, there's no indication that they're happening simultaneously. Awesome ending to Batgirl 14, but I think Batman was the better issue.

I really wish Batgirl would get better artists. It's been a really solid book, but man the art has been all over the place. Fucking hate Ed Benes. I wish they would team Simone up with Nikolai Scott again.

[number8]

Wow, terrific looking variant cover for JL #15, by Billy Tucci.

http://media.comicvine.com/uploads/0/40/2712937-justl_cv15_var_r1_super.jpeg

[megladon8]

Amazing cover.

Too bad it's a shitty comic.

[Ezee E]

Dark Knight was great stuff with the Scarecrow, but kind of annoyed that they took it to an epic level at the very end.

And Superman is my pick of the week. Tremendous stuff there. I really like how they portrayed the power of H'el in it.

[number8]

Batman #18 will have guest artist Andy Kubert, and backup story art by Alex fucking Maleev.

Should be a good looking issue.

[Sven]

Apparently Gail Simone was fired from Batgirl.

[number8]

@Paul_Cornell
Above all, @GailSimone has an audience of her own that'll be out of that door with her.

Correct, Paul. I'm dropping it immediately.

[number8]

I really want to know what the fuck the reasoning is. That title's selling better than Wonder Woman and Flash for fuck's sake. I bet it's some editorial politics.

[ledfloyd]

I really want to know what the fuck the reasoning is. That title's selling better than Wonder Woman and Flash for fuck's sake. I bet it's some editorial politics.
this seems to be the case more often than not at the big two these days.

[number8]

this seems to be the case more often than not at the big two these days.

Everybody's playing favorites and making the industry adopt a more corporate culture. No wonder everyone's bailing.

It seems that Gail's firing is really just a case of the book getting a new editor and the asshole wants to bring in his own guy rather than working with the person who singlehandedly made Batgirl the best selling female character book they have.

[number8]

Here's Gail's official statement in the firing:

http://gailsimone.tumblr.com/post/37578340766/i-am-so-fricking-fortunate-its-ridiculous

[number8]

Snyder and Paquette are both quitting Swamp Thing with the Rotworld finale in #18. Pretty sure I'm dropping both this and Animal Man after that. I haven't been enthusiastic about either title for a while anyway.

[ledfloyd]

man, people are dropping like flies.

[Ezee E]

man, people are dropping like flies.
Well, Snyder is moving on to Talon and a Superman title (I believe). So balances for him.

[number8]

I wish Cornell was still writing Stormwatch.

[Sven]

I wish Cornell was still writing Stormwatch.

Me too, though I must confess that I'm quite enjoying the gay soap into which Milligan has transformed it. And Will Conrad's artwork, especially his shading, has grown on me.

[number8]

I just feel like all these connections with Demon Knights would probably work better with one writer at the helm of both.

[Ezee E]

And still a shame about Batgirl losing its writer. This last issue was very fun.

Batman was alright. Basically a transition issue.

[number8]

Sort of. Snyder's obviously writing a horror book and #15 has a few suspense building moments, though there's not enough throughline to make it stand alone as an issue. It will probably read like a great chapter on trade.

I love the whole pupils bookending.

[number8]

I just want a Wonder Woman movie before a Justice League one, why is it too much to ask?

http://www.artboiled.com/2012/man-of-steel-is-coming-now-wheres-the-woman/

[number8]

Wow. Just wow.

Due to negative backlash, DC execs decided to reverse the new Batgirl editor's decision and rehire Gail Simone as the writer.

That is great news, but super embarrassing.

[number8]

If the editor is staying on, that is going to be one very awkward relationship.

[Ezee E]

Wonder how Simone feels.

[bac0n]

Now, I don't follow JL any more (lost interest two issues in, meh), but I did hear that Superman and Wonder Woman are now lovers? Is this true? If so, that is the stupidest thing I've ever heard in at least a year.

[Ezee E]

1)Never understood why Lex Luthor was so villainous. In Superman's latest issue, they pull it off really well. What a facility.

2)Dark Knight ended its Scarecrow story pretty well. No idea what they'll do next, but I like the change of writers.

[number8]

I, Vampire and DCU Presents are cancelled.

[Sven]

...and apparently Starlin is taking over Stormwatch? That is interesting.

[number8]

Constantine is apparently being written by Jeff Lemire.

Come on... Sigh.

[Ezee E]

Last few weeks of Bat issues have all been pretty fun, especially Batman.

What's in the dinner tray??

[number8]

What an unbelievably dumb gimmick. Every DC title in April will have this logo on the cover because DC is making it an event for all books to have something really shocking happen in them.

http://s3-ec.buzzfed.com/static/enhanced/webdr03/2013/1/30/12/enhanced-buzz-28554-1359568093-14.jpg

[Ezee E]

Trying too hard! Ugh.

I'm ready for the Superman story to end. It started off well, but it's just overbearing at this point. The Superboy Annual was just forced. What a waste of an issue. I'll stick with Superman, maybe, but definitely won't continue with Superboy/Supergirl.

[ledfloyd]

What an unbelievably dumb gimmick. Every DC title in April will have this logo on the cover because DC is making it an event for all books to have something really shocking happen in them.
What a ridiculously stupid idea for an event. I'm kind of upset I'm so attached to books like Wonder Woman and Batman Inc because shit like this makes me want to cut the cord.

[sevenarts]

Yeah DC seems to have one awful idea after another. The only books I really still care about at this point are Wonder Woman, Batman Inc., Dial H and Batwoman, and with their track record lately I'm sure they'll do something to screw up all of those soon enough.

[dreamdead]

Yeah, I'm thinking that Williams will leave Batwoman sometime this year, with the title tanking and being canceled shortly after. I'm expecting him to announce an Image title for 2014 (likely female-centered) around October/November.

[number8]

Found this animation.

http://i.imgur.com/b3NpjQq.gif

[sevenarts]

Loved the Batman and Robin Annual though. This book continues to be really solid. This is what the main Batman book should be like instead of Snyder's meandering junk. B&R under Tomasi has consistently been fun, intense, heartfelt, and compelling while the main Batman book tries to shock readers or deliver ridiculous "twists."

[Ezee E]

I haven't found the last few issues of Snyder's issues to be "twisty" though. They all seem to be building pretty well to this conclusion.

If it's like House of Owls though... Yuck.

[Sven]

Y'all know this the kind of thing mehates to admit, but Red Lanterns is getting to be more and more about crossover incidents and the DCU and I'm becoming disheartened.

Last issue of Batman Inc was scrambled in a heard-hurting, not-enticing way. With the last two issues needing fill-in pages and the New 52 confusion becoming starker, the editorial mandates have me worrying that Morrison's Batman saga is going to end in a whimper.

Luckily Mieville is keeping it real.

[number8]

The "WTF" gimmick for Stormwatch revealed:

They're rebooting the book.

Jim Starlin is taking over starting this issue, and he's scrapping the run up to this point, killing off the entire team and replacing them with a Stormwatch from another universe, which will include the pre-Nu52 Apollo and Midnighter.

Here's the cover:

https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/554404_419387051478853_8861295 00_n.jpg

WTF indeed, but not the kind they wanted.

[number8]

Man, who makes these.

http://i.imgur.com/pbMWetw.gif

[number8]

CANCELLED:

Fury Of The Firestorm
Ravagers
Savage Hawkman
Deathstroke
Sword Of Sorcery
Team 7

lol some of these are only up to #4.

[Acapelli]

this might be the worst thing

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/bryan-young/exclusive-dc-comics-revea_b_2641445.html