On this Wednesday I am thankful for comic book discussion! 11/21/07!

[ConorKilpatrick]

Tell us what you thought of the books of the week!

If you want to see what's on the iFanboys' pull list, check it out here (http://www.ifanboy.com/archive/weblog/november_21st_2.html).

Pick of the Week: Powers #27

http://www.ifanboy.com/images/pick_112107-thumb.jpg (http://www.ifanboy.com/archive/pickoftheweek/11212007_powers.html)

Watch out for SPOILERS because from here on out people are talking about the books of the week.

[Steve M.]

I thought Iron Man: Annual was awesome. I've been hating on Tony Stark lately, but this was really cool.

Someone please (seriously) explain what happened in Loners. I felt like they didn't know how to end the story so they just didn't. Is the writer trying to force Marvel to make it an ongoing--because it doesn't have the characters or the audience for it. Closing the book with 5 new mysteries was stupid.

the art in the Ultimates 3 preview looks awesome.

[Steve M.]

Messiah Complex continues to be good.

[Labor_Days]

I'm not reading Messiah Complex, but I heard an interesting rumor today...

...
.....
......
.......
........
.........
..........


the baby is the reincarnated Jean Grey/Phoenix.


What say you Messiah Complex readers?

[fred]

that's insane

[kahunablair]

That would be insane. Yet suprisingly fitting when you think about it.

The main problem I can see though? When Scott turns all wishy washy in a few years about the Emma thing... is he going to be a pedophile?? That's right, I went there!

[paper]

No books for me this week. But I did get Exterminators vol 1 and Wasteland vol. 1 in the mail.

[kahunablair]

No books for me this week. But I did get Exterminators vol 1 and Wasteland vol. 1 in the mail.

That stinks, sir. Nothing tickled your fancy, or are you just being "responsible" with your money?

I want to hear what you think of Exterminators, so please keep us posted.

[GungaDin]

Random n00b question: Whose pick is it this week?

[paper]

That stinks, sir. Nothing tickled your fancy, or are you just being "responsible" with your money?

I want to hear what you think of Exterminators, so please keep us posted.

A little of both actually.

You'll have my thoughts on Exterminators within 24 hours.

[kwok_talk]

I'm not reading Messiah Complex, but I heard an interesting rumor today...

...
.....
......
.......
........
.........
..........


the baby is the reincarnated Jean Grey/Phoenix.


What say you Messiah Complex readers?

I say, "WHY DID I CLICK ON THIS THREAD??????!?!??"

[paper]

Isn't that how they end everything in the X books anyway? Aside from the good ones like Astonishing and X Factor?

[kahunablair]

You'll have my thoughts on Exterminators within 24 hours.

I eagerly await your reply.

[CAM!]

Well, if that is how it goes down, one shouldn't be upset.

Isn't that the nature of the concept? Destroyed in fire, rise from the ashes again and again?

Plus she's hot ;) (well, maybe not the baby, but she'll grow up right?)

[ConorKilpatrick]

Random n00b question: Whose pick is it this week?

It's Josh.

[Six Gun]

I'm re-reading the last two issues of Checkmate for when I get my order in the mail on Friday with all of this week's books

[Luthor]

The Pick is up...that was quick.

[GungaDin]

It's Josh.

The Pick is up...that was quick.

Need I say more?

[Labor_Days]

I say, "WHY DID I CLICK ON THIS THREAD??????!?!??"

Sorry, Kwok. It's just a rumor.

But as they say...

Watch out for SPOILERS because from here on out people are talking about the books of the week.

[paper]

"of the week"

Just saying.

[ConorKilpatrick]

The Pick is up...that was quick.

We got out of work at lunch time today. :)

[Labor_Days]

"of the week"

Just saying.

Isn't there some X-book or other out this week? :rolleyes:

[GungaDin]

Isn't there some X-book or other out this week? :rolleyes:

Messiah Complex. One a week till February and then they split and do their own thing...


Edit: Or something like that

[paper]

Isn't there some X-book or other out this week? :rolleyes:

And does that happen in this week's issue? That's my point.

No use crying over spoiled milk though. You did warn everybody.

[Labor_Days]

Actually, I don't know!

Not reading myself. Everyone at the shop seemed to agree that was what was being hinted at.

[paper]

Oh, the way you presented it, I thought it was rumored to be the final outcome of the series. But if it's up for speculation after this week's issue that's different.

[Six Gun]

I feel a bit sorry for Josh, Captain America? or Powers?

He wrote a darn good review though

[Luthor]

I just had a very, very weird thing happen to me.

I was going threw my stack, reading in no particular order and came across a book that literally made me gasp when I saw it because I forgot it was out. I read it and enjoyed the hell out of it as I always do. I skimmed back threw it to take in the art. Then the weird thing happened. It dawned on me. This is my favorite book. I get giddy every time it comes out. It bothers me that I can't get more of it.

For the first time in over 20 years as a comic fan, my absolute favorite comic isn't main stream. It doesn't star a super hero.


My favorite book is Walking Dead.

Thank you iFanboys for introducing me to it.

[fred]

my grades are up: http://thisweekincomics.com/thisweekstatistics.php

podcast and summary coming soon

[Six Gun]

my grades are up: http://thisweekincomics.com/thisweekstatistics.php

podcast and summary coming soon

Do you not read Checkmate fred?

[fred]

I've read the first trade. I need to pick up the second one.

[fred]

the weekly summary is up: http://thisweekincomics.com/11212007.php (http://thisweekincomics.com/11212007.php)

[kwok_talk]

Actually, I don't know!

Not reading myself. Everyone at the shop seemed to agree that was what was being hinted at.
Oh I was just joking, even if you didn't say it, I probably would be PMing people to find out if the rumor was true.

[GungaDin]

So I read Action. Pretty good. Not quite as good as last months, but it is certainly a good read. Not enough Superman, but good scene with "The Trinity of the Legion" in the Batcave. Interesting idea Johns has going... Excited for the next ish...

Grade: B+

[Six Gun]

I've read the first trade. I need to pick up the second one.

Just curious, good stuff

[Jimski]

For the number nerds: I noticed this week some of the Marvel books have their mandatory annual US Postal Service Statement of Circulation in them. We always talk about how accurate the sales figures are or are not, but the government requires the company to state each title's sales and subscription rate publicly every so often. Keep those eyes peeled!

[AlexG]

Yep... I like Messiah Complex. I'm just enjoying the hell out of the crossover event. New X Men of all things was the title that brought me back to the X books and this Crossover in particular has a lot of rewards for people who stuck with New X men for a while.

Yeah, it's not for everyone, sure...but damn I like it.

And Walking Dead is so good it almost pisses me off.

[cormano]

For the number nerds: I noticed this week some of the Marvel books have their mandatory annual US Postal Service Statement of Circulation in them. We always talk about how accurate the sales figures are or are not, but the government requires the company to state each title's sales and subscription rate publicly every so often. Keep those eyes peeled!

That's pretty interesting. I looked at a couple books after reading this and also noticed that the Canadian price is now $3.05 compared to $3.75 a couple months ago. I knew they were supposed to be dropping but that's a much more significant change than I would have expected.

All I've read from this weeks is:

New X-Men #44 - I think this is still as good as Messiah Complex has been, but I didn't enjoy it quite as much just because I don't know any of these characters. It did do a good job of focusing mainly on the New X-Men for readers only picking this series up, but also giving brief updates on what everyone else is up to.

And I just got a hold of from las week:

New Avengers #36 - When this started, I hated it. They're shoveling the symbiote thing into a few pages after making me wait with no explanation last issue? But, just like with last issue, I loved it by the end.

[Mikegraham6]

I'm not reading Messiah Complex, but I heard an interesting rumor today...

...
.....
......
.......
........
.........
..........


the baby is the reincarnated Jean Grey/Phoenix.


What say you Messiah Complex readers?

i say it's X-MAN

[Mikegraham6]

I want to hear what you think of Exterminators, so please keep us posted.

seconded!
(10)

[Mikegraham6]

I've read the first trade. I need to pick up the second one.

i think that Checkmate reads significantly better in trade, i think i'd be far too confused if i read it month to month

[Mikegraham6]

That's pretty interesting. I looked at a couple books after reading this and also noticed that the Canadian price is now $3.05 compared to $3.75 a couple months ago. I knew they were supposed to be dropping but that's a much more significant change than I would have expected.


i just checked out my copy of Halo (i caved and bought the second issue, what can i say, it was a light week) and the Canadian price is only 6 cents more than the American ($4.05 VS $3.99). DC's price on the other hand are still ridiculously high. C'mon DC get with the program!
i'm glad they have finally implemented a change, but i guess this means we'll never reach parity and that makes me sad:(

[Six Gun]

i think that Checkmate reads significantly better in trade, i think i'd be far too confused if i read it month to month

I re-read the last issues in the arc beforehand I just feel like this is a book that I really need to be supporting in single issues (it's my favorite DC book)

[Mikegraham6]

ya i feel bad about the support thing, but i have told my LCS to order any new Checkmate trade as soon as they come out, so DC still sees my interest pretty early, but i wonder how much trade sales affect any decisions....

[Six Gun]

ya i feel bad about the support thing, but i have told my LCS to order any new Checkmate trade as soon as they come out, so DC still sees my interest pretty early, but i wonder how much trade sales affect any decisions....

Good question, I'm not sure they do much with this old model

[AlexG]

Checkmate does ready better in trade, but I'm too impatient to wait. Especially since I feel like it takes forever for DC trades to come out (Except for the Picoult Wonder Woman run...why of all things was THAT traded?!)

[JAFlanagan]

Checkmate does ready better in trade, but I'm too impatient to wait. Especially since I feel like it takes forever for DC trades to come out (Except for the Picoult Wonder Woman run...why of all things was THAT traded?!)

Because she's a mainstream novelist, ans she sells more copies of her books than any comic book even imagines.

[AlexG]

Well, good point I suppose...oh well. Too bad it sucked.

Anyway...Umbrella Academy continues to surprise me. I keep buying it, keep expecting not to like it, but I just do.

[Odds Bodkins]

So many good books this week! Powers, Ex Machina, Walking Dead, Cap and The Spirit were all great... but, my favorite is a tie between Hawaiian Dick and Groo. These books are always a pleasure to read.

The art in Hawaiian Dick is unlike anything else out there... and they're dealing with a little Hitler mysticism in this new arc. An old treasure hunting air unit from WWII, whom Byrd follows obsessively, comes to town when there is an accident in the skies.

Groo is still Groo. Fumbling around from page to page and attacking his own army. I'm probably nostalgic about that title... but his idiocy always brings a smile to my face. I'm so glad Aragonés is taking over Spirit. No one listened to Sage and now the village is flooded because of melting glaciers.

[itsbecca]

I just wanted to mention. The art on Detective Comics this week was so distracting I've actually put it aside. I just hate that sketchy, way to many lines that don't even make sense sort of style. I'll finish it. Eventually. But ugh.

[CAM!]

Hmmm Maybe I should post this in the Grendel thread I started.

But did anyone else read Grendel?

Cause y'all really should, the first 4 pages build to such a great payoff.

man i love matt wagner.

[Labor_Days]

Hmmm Maybe I should post this in the Grendel thread I started.

But did anyone else read Grendel?

Cause y'all really should, the first 4 pages build to such a great payoff.

man i love matt wagner.

Hey Cam!, I think you might enjoy the Comixology interview with Matt Wagner.

Link (http://www.comixology.com/podcasts/7/Grendel-with-Matt-Wagner)

[ConorKilpatrick]

I just had a very, very weird thing happen to me.

I was going threw my stack, reading in no particular order and came across a book that literally made me gasp when I saw it because I forgot it was out. I read it and enjoyed the hell out of it as I always do. I skimmed back threw it to take in the art. Then the weird thing happened. It dawned on me. This is my favorite book. I get giddy every time it comes out. It bothers me that I can't get more of it.

For the first time in over 20 years as a comic fan, my absolute favorite comic isn't main stream. It doesn't star a super hero.


My favorite book is Walking Dead.

Thank you iFanboys for introducing me to it.

Awesome!

You are very welcome!

[paper]

A little of both actually.

You'll have my thoughts on Exterminators within 24 hours.

It was alright.

[kahunablair]

It was alright.

That's all we get? Haha. Turkey must be kicking in, man.

All kidding aside, that's exactly what I wanted to say. I tried to elaborate and came up with a few sentences saying the same thing.

[paper]

In all honesty I haven't finished yet. I'm about 60% in.

The writing isn't really grabbing me. The narration is bugging me. Feels forced.

I keep thinking, "This would be really entertaining if BKV came in as a script doctor to touch up the dialogue."

[MastaP]

Okay is it just me or did countown suddenly validate it's purchase. I was on the edge of dropping the book, but then this issue was so good, i reconsidered. Thus is the power of Mr. Mxy... I'm not even going to try. Although, I barley skimmed the other parts

[Mikegraham6]

In all honesty I haven't finished yet. I'm about 60% in.

The writing isn't really grabbing me. The narration is bugging me. Feels forced.

I keep thinking, "This would be really entertaining if BKV came in as a script doctor to touch up the dialogue."

i agree with you 100%, something really did feel off with the narration

i also felt the story lacked depth and while there was a heavy focus on some characters, others felt like they were just tossed in, the girlfriend for example, she definitely needed to be fleshed out a bit more in order for the whole affair thing to carry any weight with me.

anyway, i thought it was interesting enough for me to pick up the second trade but i was pretty surprised to hear so much love for it on the recent iFanboy vidcast, maybe it improves with the second trade?

[Mikegraham6]

Okay is it just me or did countown suddenly validate it's purchase. I was on the edge of dropping the book, but then this issue was so good, i reconsidered. Thus is the power of Mr. Mxy... I'm not even going to try. Although, I barley skimmed the other parts

i agree, i don't think countdown is spectacular, but i really think it's improved since they changed the title to Countdown To Final Crisis. It could also be just because there hasn't been any sign of Jimmy Olsen or Holly Robinson, i hate those two storylines, but i like Superman Prime as a villain so things are starting to look up for Countdown. it finally feels like it's building towards something

[Six Gun]

In all honesty I haven't finished yet. I'm about 60% in.

The writing isn't really grabbing me. The narration is bugging me. Feels forced.

I keep thinking, "This would be really entertaining if BKV came in as a script doctor to touch up the dialogue."

Really? Is there a precedence for comic book script doctoring?

[paper]

Not technically I don't think. Brubaker touching up Matt Fraction's Iron Fist drafts is probably about as close as it gets. Script doctoring is just doing revisions, albeit outside the parameters of co-authoring.

I'm glad I gave Exterminators a shot, but It's nothing I'd really want to continue with.

[Mikegraham6]

Not technically I don't think. Brubaker touching up Matt Fraction's Iron Fist drafts is probably about as close as it gets. Script doctoring is just doing revisions, albeit outside the parameters of co-authoring.

I'm glad I gave Exterminators a shot, but It's nothing I'd really want to continue with.
I though it was vice versa
Doesn't Brubaker plot Iron Fist while Fraction actually writes it?

[paper]

Yeah, but then Brubaker takes another pass at it and cleans up Fraction's bad ideas before it goes to editorial.

[Six Gun]

Yeah, but then Brubaker takes another pass at it and cleans up Fraction's bad ideas before it goes to editorial.

If the guest artist is one he wants to work with, Brubaker writes the whole scene

[paper]

Fraction is the Bob Cratchit to Brubaker's Scrooge.

"Could I write a scene with Luke Cage in a helicopter?"
"Hmm...sounds fun. I should probably do it."
"Could I put another lump of coal in the stove, sir?"
"No. Bundle up some Heroes for Hire issues and burn those."
"There's someone at the door, sir."
"Solicitors. Bah! And Humbug!"
"Why it's the Marvel editorial board."

"Hello, Ed. Matty."
"Yes, what is it? What do you want?"
"We're wondering if you'd like to do a one shot for Heroes for Hire?"
"Whatever would I want to do that for?"
"It could use a bump in sales. And with your name..."
"Bah! Not interested."
"But we could be forced to...the series could be cancelled!"
"You'd better do it! And decrease the surplus circulation!"

"That was very rude, sir! You made Mr. Joe Q cry!"
"What are you doing throwing those Heroes for Hire in the furnace! They're about to be worth something!"

[Six Gun]

Fraction is the Bob Cratchit to Brubaker's Scrooge.

"Could I write a scene with Luke Cage in a helicopter?"
"Hmm...sounds fun. I should probably do it."
"Could I put another lump of coal in the stove, sir?"
"No. Bundle up some Heroes for Hire issues and burn those."
"There's someone at the door, sir."
"Solicitors. Bah! And Humbug!"
"Why it's the Marvel editorial board."

"Hello, Ed. Matty."
"Yes, what is it? What do you want?"
"We're wondering if you'd like to do a one shot for Heroes for Hire?"
"Whatever would I want to do that for?"
"It could use a bump in sales. And with your name..."
"Bah! Not interested."
"But we could be forced to...the series could be cancelled!"
"You'd better do it! And decrease the surplus circulation!"

"That was very rude, sir! You made Mr. Joe Q cry!"
"What are you doing throwing those Heroes for Hire in the furnace! They're about to be worth something!"

you should email (http://edbrubaker.com/contact.html) that to him around Christmas

[Labor_Days]

Just getting to my books now.

WTF @ people not talking about Captain America and Action Comics.

You guys still like comics right?

[Mikegraham6]

great books, both of em!

i can't believe that Johns has gotten me to read the Legion

[CAM!]

Hey Cam!, I think you might enjoy the Comixology interview with Matt Wagner.

Link (http://www.comixology.com/podcasts/7/Grendel-with-Matt-Wagner)

Oh awesome thanks Labor, I'll give it a listen when I get home.

[CAM!]

great books, both of em!

i can't believe that Johns has gotten me to read the Legion

Now you can hop on the legion book itself when Jim shooter gets onboard.

(then you can tell us if it's any good ;))

[Mikegraham6]

im not going to go quite that far, basically if this book didn't have Johns' name on it i would never have given it a chance. Now maybe if DC could get him to write the Legion book instead of Shooter......

Johns should just write the entire DC U in my opinion

[CAM!]

Johns should just write the entire DC U in my opinion

I'm sure he'd like to...

[Labor_Days]

Crazy talk, Mike. Jim "Golden Boy" Shooter practically invented the Legion. I'm hella excited for Shooter taking over. Not that the Legion book has been bad. It's been really good actually for about year and half.

The whole scene in AC with the Legion Trinity in the Batcave was gold. The close up of Saturn Girl's eye- I was left breathless.

[Six Gun]

Just getting to my books now.

WTF @ people not talking about Captain America and Action Comics.

You guys still like comics right?

The mail hasn't run yet

[Labor_Days]

Old news but new to me; The Sword #2 was damn good.

[Six Gun]

Well, Thanksgiving threw off my comic delivery so I won't be getting them until tomorrow :mad:

[Labor_Days]

Are you mail ordering too, Six? I had no idea.

I'm about 50/50 shop/mail order at this point.

[Six Gun]

Are you mail ordering too, Six? I had no idea.

I'm about 50/50 shop/mail order at this point.

I'm 100% mail order, if I goof on a book I'll get it online.

Chattanooga TN is a crappy place to be a comic fan

[Luthor]

WTF @ people not talking about Captain America and Action Comics.


My store only got a half shipment until today...and Action is brilliant.

I don't know if there has ever been a better creative team then Geoff Johns and Gary Frank on a regular DCU Superman book ever. They just feel right on this book. I know next to nothing about the Legion but I'm not confused or put off by anything that's going on.

I've said it before and I'll say it again...this is some good comics.

As an aside...was it just me or did Invincible feel a little flat this week?

[paper]

I picked up the previous Action Comics. Wasn't my thing. I really wanted to like it.

[Labor_Days]

My store only got a half shipment until today...and Action is brilliant.

I don't know if there has ever been a better creative team then Geoff Johns and Gary Frank on a regular DCU Superman book ever. They just feel right on this book. I know next to nothing about the Legion but I'm not confused or put off by anything that's going on.

I've said it before and I'll say it again...this is some good comics.

Yea, word. Johns' strength has always been his ability to draw upon the DC lore without being suffocating to the story.

[MastaP]

Crazy talk, Mike. Jim "Golden Boy" Shooter practically invented the Legion. I'm hella excited for Shooter taking over. Not that the Legion book has been bad. It's been really good actually for about year and half.

The whole scene in AC with the Legion Trinity in the Batcave was gold. The close up of Saturn Girl's eye- I was left breathless.

Yeah I'm incredibly excited for Shooter's legion, and I'm praying it doesn't fall flat.

Also Did anyone get the new Goon hardcover, I've been all over and havn't found a copy. (Anyone in Ottawa know a shop that is still carrying it? Yes, Mike Graham, this question is mostly for you)

[CylonPete]

Anyway...Umbrella Academy continues to surprise me. I keep buying it, keep expecting not to like it, but I just do.

I'm exactly the same with the book. I started to buy it for my girlfriend, cause she's not into comics, but likes that kind of art. So, when she puts down the issue, she turns to me and says: "Did you read it? It's awesome!" And I was like: "Nay, not for me." A bit later, I was bored I guess, I started to read and read it and...I found myself quite enjoying it. Damn.

Btw, did anyone read Angel: After the Fall this week? I was a bit nervous picking it up, with what that great end to the TV-show and what not. But I came around that issue eventually and read it.

AWESOME. This is Angel. This feels like the characters, these are the voices. And some nice (unexpected) turns.

[CAM!]

Btw, did anyone read Angel: After the Fall this week? I was a bit nervous picking it up, with what that great end to the TV-show and what not. But I came around that issue eventually and read it.

AWESOME. This is Angel. This feels like the characters, these are the voices. And some nice (unexpected) turns.

Hmmm, interesting.

At my store it was limited to 1 copy per customer.

BUt I'm not a fan so it didn't affect me at all.

[CAM!]

In other news,

Apparently last week Mark Millar's The Unfunnies #3 and 4 came out.

I've managed to track down 3 but still no 4.

Very frustrating, I mean I've been waiting like a year already, now I can't friggin find the last issue?!?

Anyways, what boggles the mind is, I think I'm the only person reading this who cleaned out issue #4?

[Labor_Days]

Nope. I picked up Unfunnies too but haven't read them yet. Totally missed those in the shipping list. Grr.

I'm flipping through #4 now! /rubs salt in the wound :-D

[CAM!]

Damn you Labor!!!!

[Labor_Days]

Damn you Labor!!!!

Oh man, so good (http://i7.tinypic.com/7ypo8qw.png).

Unfunnies might be too vulgar to talk about here. They really are pushing it in #3 & #4.

[CAM!]

Unfunnies might be too vulgar to talk about here. They really are pushing it in #3 & #4.

What? Didn't we talk about Satan's sodomy baby here?

It can't be worse than that? Can it?

[Labor_Days]

Didn't read that Goon One-Shot, Cam. But Unfunnies is taking religion and capital punishment to task petty hard here.

[TehDave]

on board with the action comics love - this book is FANTASTIC right now. the story is interesting and the book looks great. johns is pretty much teh awesome all over this book.

i love that it is picking up some of the pieces laid by "the lightning saga," which got hammered, but seems like it was doing some nice setup duty for this storyline.

my favorite thing is that i have no idea where this is going - it's totally unpredictable. i don't know what braniac 5's plan is, i don't know how earth man is going to handle superman's presence next issue, and that's so sweet. it's so great to have a book where i have no idea what the next step will be, and yet i can't wait to find out.

[Labor_Days]

I am rather upset by the implication of Booster Gold #4.

Killing Jokes? No, no, no!

[s1lentslayer]

I wanted to pick up Angel but my shop was sold out.

[Six Gun]

My comics didn't come again today. I'm going to break something.

[ConorKilpatrick]

My comics didn't come again today. I'm going to break something.

You should go do a play and break a leg.

[itsbecca]

You should go do a play and break a leg.

Now that's the kind of violent irony I can support. If you meant it physically... if not well... I still laughed at the thought so win win.

[Jon_Samuelson]

I just finished up "The Goon: Chinatown and the mystery of Mr. Wicker" hardcover that came out this week, and all I can say is Wow. The art was simply spectacular, there were many moments where it reminded me a lot of Eisner's work from "Contract with God" which is pretty fresh in my memory. This is really an example of a great artist at the top of his game.

Powell wasn't kidding around when he put that intro page that says only "This ain't funny" before the story. This is not at all your typical goon story, it's very poignant and often very sad. It really drives home the reasoning behind why the Goon doesn't want to talk about the whole Chinatown fiasco. One especially brilliant thing that the story does is to birth a new mystery in place of this one (what happened in Chinatown) that we can wonder about in the future, so I'm looking forward to resolution of that little nugget.

Highly recommended to any fan of "The Goon".

[Six Gun]

Now that's the kind of violent irony I can support. If you meant it physically... if not well... I still laughed at the thought so win win.

Why would you want me to break a leg? ;)

[paper]

"What doesn't kill [you] makes [you] stronger."

--Kanye West

[Humphrey Lee]

My comic book total for the week came to $131.31... It'll be weeks before I can finish reading all this shite. Goddammit all to hell...

[Dave Accampo]

I haven't read everything this week, but I'll run down a couple quick thoughts:

- Hawaiian Dick #1 was pretty good. I don't like Scott Chantler's art as much as Steve Griffin's, but Griffin's stamp is still all over the book, plus he writes and draws a back-up. Good start to the series.

- Checkmate #20 was awesome. This is the kind of story I was waiting for, and I wasn't even bothered that it ties into other series.

- Iron Man Annual #1- fun story. Not phenomenal, but a good fun story for a character who has a LOT of baggage these days.

- Captain America #32 - continuing its awesomeness.

- New X-men #44 - don't read this book normally, but got it as part of my decision to have fun with this big X-over. While I don't know the characters, I thought they did a fine job of showing me who they were by their actions. I had no problem following. And it felt like a solid chapter in the big story. So, while it doesn't necessarily make me want to buy New X-men, it does NOT make me regret my decision to stay with this cross-over. I'm calling that a win.

- Still to read: Hellblazer, The Spirit, Walking Dead, and Ex Machina.

- oh crap, I missed Powers somehow. Guess I gotta go back to the comic shop tomorrow.

[Mikegraham6]

Yeah I'm incredibly excited for Shooter's legion, and I'm praying it doesn't fall flat.

Also Did anyone get the new Goon hardcover, I've been all over and havn't found a copy. (Anyone in Ottawa know a shop that is still carrying it? Yes, Mike Graham, this question is mostly for you)

I can't tell you for sure whether or not they have it but The Silver Snail at 391 Bank Street has a huge collection of indy books, if they don't have it they can probably order it for you

you can call them to see if they have it in stock: (613) 232-2609

you can check The Comic Book Shoppe at bank and nepean, but they focus more on the superhero stuff and i find the Snail to have a better selection

[Neb]

I loved this week. I left my thoughts on the regular site already, but I thought I'd speak more specifically to other titles.

I just picked up the few issues of Powers (issue 25 and up) and loved all of them. This is definitely getting added to the pull list. Oeming's art is to die for in this book. It is soooo much stronger than any other book he's done.

I feel conflicted by Detective Comics this week. The art was on and off for me, and the plot was just "okay." I thought that the resurrection of Ra's would be more...I don't know...exciting? Right now, I'm just not jazzed by it as there doesn't seem to be a sense of intensity in it. And the sword fight? LAME!!!

[Labor_Days]

Dini brought out the Ra's/Bats sword fight too soon. Too soon bros, too soon.

[itsbecca]

I feel conflicted by Detective Comics this week. The art was on and off for me, and the plot was just "okay." I thought that the resurrection of Ra's would be more...I don't know...exciting? Right now, I'm just not jazzed by it as there doesn't seem to be a sense of intensity in it. And the sword fight? LAME!!!

There was no on for me art wise. It was fully, 100% off.

[Labor_Days]

Gods, yes. The art was terrible. What was up with Robin's face? I mean honestly.

I just don't think any of the other Bat writers get the Denny O'Neil homage Morrison was going for in the prelude. Nightwing was fun and came the closest to nailing that tone.

[Luthor]

I was near a comic store yesterday and saw they had the first Scott Pilgrim in a clearance box for $5. Since it's always talked about so frequently around these parts I picked it up.

It's really good.

The art is quirky but very good and the story is a lot of fun. I think my favorite part of the book is the familiarity of the settings and characters. I've owned at least two of the band t-shirts I saw floating around during the concert scene and I feel like I know more then one of these people personally.

I really enjoyed this and will be hunting down the rest ASAP.

[Neb]

I picked the first trade this week as well (after the fellas gushed about the fourth one last week), and it was really good. The fight at the end was really funny, and the rest of the book was just solid on all fronts. I've already ordered the next two trades. Can't wait to get them!

[Mikegraham6]

Oh man, so good (http://i7.tinypic.com/7ypo8qw.png).

Unfunnies might be too vulgar to talk about here. They really are pushing it in #3 & #4.

is the unfunnies ever going to be collected? i'd really like to read it but im too behind to get the older issues

[CAM!]

is the unfunnies ever going to be collected? i'd really like to read it but im too behind to get the older issues

I woudl imagine it is. The only reason it was delayed so long was legal issues over the characters.

Apparently they resemble other characters. :p

[Jimski]

I'd seen Mark Millar mention Unfunnies a number of times over the years, but I'd never actually seen it until last week when I stopped by my local not-just-the-big-two shop. Just seeing the covers made me want to get to the other side of the room and possibly head for a church as quickly as possible. It was not a response I would have expected from myself.

[Mikegraham6]

I'd seen Mark Millar mention Unfunnies a number of times over the years, but I'd never actually seen it until last week when I stopped by my local not-just-the-big-two shop. Just seeing the covers made me want to get to the other side of the room and possibly head for a church as quickly as possible. It was not a response I would have expected from myself.
this just makes me want to read it even more

[Labor_Days]

this just makes me want to read it even more

It's funny stuff. But you have to able to go for the kind of humor.

http://img32.picoodle.com/img/img32/5/11/26/f_Image1m_e4dd7d5.png

[Mikegraham6]

from this, Millar's description, and the page you posted, it sounds like it's right up my alley

[paper]

Thinking about switching to trades only. Seriously.

Talk me down from the ledge. Or join me to fly to new heights of financial well-being.

[Dave Accampo]

I think you shouldn't be shackled to the individual issues if you don't enjoy reading that way.

for me personally, I have very little desire to "collect" issues of comics anymore. However, I like reading them, and further more, I like reading them in weekly installments.

I ALSO like good collections of really top notch material, both for re-reading and for display.

This came up in the digital comics thread, but my ideal situation would be to collect issues in cheap digital downloads, and then buy collections of stuff I really like.

Unfortunately, the technology just isn't there for me yet, so I'm gonna keep reading the issues to feed my habit. I do LIKE to read comics in a serial format. So I've still gotta get the issues for awhile.

I have switched many series, especially Vertigo series, to trade only, though.

[kahunablair]

I think you shouldn't be shackled to the individual issues if you don't enjoy reading that way.

for me personally, I have very little desire to "collect" issues of comics anymore. However, I like reading them, and further more, I like reading them in weekly installments.

I ALSO like good collections of really top notch material, both for re-reading and for display.

This came up in the digital comics thread, but my ideal situation would be to collect issues in cheap digital downloads, and then buy collections of stuff I really like.

Unfortunately, the technology just isn't there for me yet, so I'm gonna keep reading the issues to feed my habit. I do LIKE to read comics in a serial format. So I've still gotta get the issues for awhile.

I have switched many series, especially Vertigo series, to trade only, though.

Ditto on everything Dave said.

Go for it, Paper!

[esophagus]

Thinking about switching to trades only. Seriously.

Talk me down from the ledge. Or join me to fly to new heights of financial well-being.
Don't do it, Paper. Don't! From someone who has made the switch (out of necessity, not desire) you'll miss out on a lot of comic book talk. Past that, it's great. But I just hate missing out on stuff until months after it happens.

[Dave Accampo]

Don't do it, Paper. Don't! From someone who has made the switch (out of necessity, not desire) you'll miss out on a lot of comic book talk. Past that, it's great. But I just hate missing out on stuff until months after it happens.

You know, that's actually a good point. One of the things I really like about comics is the community. Whether it's iFanboy or just the guys at the comic shop, I LIKE being able to chat about comics the way I chat about TV shows. I would sincerely miss that.

[Tad]

What you need is a sieve-like memory like mine. By the time the trades are out I've forgotten all details discussed on the forums. Plus there's plenty to talk about on the forums without having read the comics being discussed.

If you can, don't cut yourself off completely from periodicals. Buy a few that way. I enjoy Invincible, Runaways, Fables and Exterminators but waiting for the trades makes it all the sweeter. I pick up the Hellboy stuff in issues even though I know I'll rebuy in trade. Mix it up.

[paper]

If you review the past couple months, comic discussion makes up a very small percent of my contribution to the boards.

I don't know that I'll give up single issues entirely (I'll finish out things like Suburban Glamour and pick up JSA when it comes out), but I don't want to start any new series.

I guess I'm not dropping singles entirely. I just want to stop buying stuff that I feel obligated to buy and never end up enjoying.

[itsbecca]

I just want to stop buying stuff that I feel obligated to buy and never end up enjoying.

While I could never do the trade thing you're describing, but I VERY much agree you shouldn't feel obligation to buy something. I entirely redid my pull list last month and it's so freeing.

[paper]

It's what I did with Spider-Man 3. I had no interest in seeing it in theaters. But I felt a cultural obligation to see it. I finally evaluated the situation and saved myself some rage and 10+ bucks.

Tomorrow I'm buying 2 or 3 books. Just being more critical about the books I buy.

[Six Gun]

Finally got my books.

First Three:

Brave and the Bold- Or, National Lampoon's Family Superhero excursion. Good, but not my thing. Also, the ending was way too sappy. B

Captain America: The Chosen- Continues to be a good war comic, however it's painfully decompressed. B

Detective Comics- Freaking Sweet! I'm loving this event A-

[paper]

Detective Comics- Freaking Sweet! I'm loving this event A-


Really? Good. I didn't think anybody was enjoying this one. This is Ra's right?

[Six Gun]

I guess I'm not dropping singles entirely. I just want to stop buying stuff that I feel obligated to buy and never end up enjoying.

Dropped Uncanny, Wonder Woman and I'm few new minis

I'm dropping Brave and the Bold

Wish I could drop Countdown, but I'm excited for Final Crisis

[itsbecca]

Really? Good. I didn't think anybody was enjoying this one. This is Ra's right?

The event itself I'm okay with, it was this issue I didn't like.

[paper]

The stuff I'd read really didn't do anything for me. What was it, the annual and the Robin issues? After that Robin installment I decided it should be called "Angry Mummy Mayhem."

[Six Gun]

Really? Good. I didn't think anybody was enjoying this one. This is Ra's right?
Yup,

the art on this made Liefeld look like a Cassaday though

[Six Gun]

The stuff I'd read really didn't do anything for me. What was it, the annual and the Robin issues? After that Robin installment I decided it should be called "Angry Mummy Mayhem."

It's really for Bat-nuts like me (to a lesser extent) and Conor (the sensei ;))

[Labor_Days]

If you review the past couple months, comic discussion makes up a very small percent of my contribution to the boards.

I don't know that I'll give up single issues entirely (I'll finish out things like Suburban Glamour and pick up JSA when it comes out), but I don't want to start any new series.

I guess I'm not dropping singles entirely. I just want to stop buying stuff that I feel obligated to buy and never end up enjoying.

Hmm. but you don't buy 20+ titles a week. How much are you reading that you don't enjoy? Just drop those.

Besides what guarantee do you have you'll enjoy a trade everyone's talked up (in issues) either?

I always give the same advice; lots of good comics out there, drop the stuff you don't enjoy and find the ones that you will enjoy.

[Dave Accampo]

If you review the past couple months, comic discussion makes up a very small percent of my contribution to the boards.

Yeah, if that's the case, and you're not enjoying stuff -- I really dont' see the point.

One point of freedom is that if you limit the singles you buy, you might feel more freedom to buy an issue or two of a random series. That's kinda what I do now. I still get the singles of various series, but a lot fewer than I used to. So I will pick up a series every once in a while, read an issue or two, and then decide if I'm interested. Often I'll then wait and buy the trade. Works pretty well.

It doesn't work if you're the collector type who needs to have a full run of everything. But I'm not that guy. I'll only buy X-men (for example) if either a writer tickles my fancy or there's a lot of buzz on it and it sounds intriguing. And I'll drop it as soon as I lose interest. That way I never feel obligated to buy anything except what I'm enjoying.

[paper]

Dave and Labor, you speak the truth. I think Dave's model, specifically, is what I want to do.

No more loveless marriage for me!

[Six Gun]

No more loveless marriage for me!

Preach it brother, preach it!

[Labor_Days]

I'm curious, what are you dropping Paper?

Like I said you don't buy many single issues...

[Dave Accampo]

Dave and Labor, you speak the truth. I think Dave's model, specifically, is what I want to do.

No more loveless marriage for me!

Welcome to Flavor Country.

[paper]

Welcome to Flavor Country.

A veritable land of Milk and Honey!

[paper]

I'm curious, what are you dropping Paper?

Like I said you don't buy many single issues...

That's a good question. It's already started I guess. I'm just making it official.

Mighty Avengers is probably going. Weird Batman related books that aren't Robin (Gotham Underground, Batman and the Outsiders (didn't like the first one)). Countdown to Adventure...

Looking at next week. I'd normally pick up Lobster Johnson, but I'm dropping that.

When did I get so critical. Geez.

[Labor_Days]

All drop worthy, Paper. A lot of those aren't even that far along.

I do like Outsiders and CD To Adventure though. But if they are not for you...drop 'em!

[Mikegraham6]

The stuff I'd read really didn't do anything for me. What was it, the annual and the Robin issues? After that Robin installment I decided it should be called "Angry Mummy Mayhem."

i kind of feel that we are in a bit of drought comic wise. Are there good books out there? yes, but it just doesn't feel that there are as many high quality titles as there were a year or two ago. Now it seems that there are more average books than there are great books. "Average" meaning they aren't crap enough to drop but they aren't anticipated everytime they come out.
But there's still Powers, JSA, Daredevil and New Avengers, so i might just be talking outta my ass here.

I've actually been enjoying reading a lot of the indy trades i had piled up on my NEXT stack more than my weekly books lately

[Six Gun]

Checkmate #20 Wasn't as good as #19 but still quite awesome. A

Captain America #32 Same as with Checkmate, but still the best thing out last week. A+

[CAM!]

Dropped Uncanny, Wonder Woman and I'm few new minis

I'm dropping Brave and the Bold

Wish I could drop Countdown, but I'm excited for Final Crisis

Really you dropped uncanny now? right at the beginning of the best x-men crossover in years?

And Wonder Woman at the beginning of Gail Simone's run?

Colour me surprised. I can see not being into B&B I love it, but it's not for everyone.

I dropped Countdown ages ago, and I'm relieved every week when I see peoples reviews. I don't think I'll have too much trouble figuring Final Crisis out when it does drop.

[ConorKilpatrick]

I dropped Countdown ages ago, and I'm relieved every week when I see peoples reviews.

That's odd because just about every review I see says since they added "To Final Crisis" to the title it has been kick ass. Which it has.

[Mikegraham6]

IGN.com would disagree with you, i think that they've been giving it a lower score since the title change (not that i agree with them)

I also think Fred has been giving them less than steller reviews....

[ConorKilpatrick]

IGN.com would disagree with you, i think that they've been giving it a lower score since the title change (not that i agree with them)

I don't read IGN.com. I read this place.

[Mikegraham6]

I don't read IGN.com. I read this place.
touché ;)

10

[Luthor]

I've dug Countdown from the start. There are some story lines within I'm not crazy about(Jimmy Olsen, I'm looking at you), but over all I think it's a really good book.

[CAM!]

IGN.com would disagree with you, i think that they've been giving it a lower score since the title change (not that i agree with them)

I also think Fred has been giving them less than steller reviews....

Yeah Fred hates it, Six is talking about dropping it, hasn't Josh said he's like to drop it but Conor and Ron would kill him if he did? (I thought that was mentioned in a podcast)
I'm just happy to be saving a couple bucks on a book I was hating.

But, you're right Conor, I have noticed more positives starting with #26 and I thought about getting back in, but tried scalped instead. I'm much happier.