A year of comics I read in 2012

Here's my two rules: Besides having to be released this year it has to be something I read. That means it can't be something like "this character still hasn't appeared" or "Wonder Woman killed this character in her book, I saw scans."

The Players in Sword of Sorcery

At least in the Gemworld section. I'll be updating this as the book goes on.

Red Hood and the Outlaws #15

Part 1 of the 4 part Death of the Family crossover between Red Hood and the Outlaws and Teen Titans. SPOILERS AHEAD

Batman and Robin #15

SPOILERS AHEAD

Sword of Sorcery #3

SPOILERS AHEAD

Batman #15

SPOILERS AHEAD

Doing something for the season

After the horrors of yesterday I was thinking of positive things to do. A few years ago I gave away three bags worth of things to the boy scouts when they were helping out Toys for Tots. This year my dad said he was going to donate and I decided to join him. Long story but I ended up getting two extra Blue Beetles one year (Ted and Jaime) and I'm thinking about adding the JLI figures. I might add more as I go through my things but it feels good to do something productive.

Solicit Time!

Spoilers ahead. At least as spoiler-ish as solicits usually are.

Batgirl #15 preview

I'm not going to get into how Simone was kicked off the title so this is just thoughts on the preview.

SPOILERISH bit ahead

Worlds Finest #7 preview

This is seriously cheesy. SPOILERS AHEAD

Booster Gold Dangling Plot Threads

I was thinking about all the things that never got tied up in the second series so this is the start of the list.

Everytime canon is messed up...

...just remember it's because time is broken. And the Time Masters don't currently exist to fix it.

Oh and that anything you hate in the new 52 is Barry Allens' fault. Yes, I miss my Carter family. Freaking Allen.

Is no one bothered by the Haly Circus retcon?

I've seen some angry comments on the changes to Tim and Jasons' origins. Even some furious over Morrison making Talia a rapist (again) in her origin in INC. But everyone's fine with Dick Graysons' childhood home, the place that always made him happy, secretly creating Talons? That Dick was being groomed to be one before his parents died?

I mean I could buy the Joker having a hand in making Jason a Robin. It's the sort of thing he'd do and it explains things a hell of a lot better than all the coincidences in  stories like DITF. The thing with Halys' doesn't even make sense given how much control the Court is supposed to have and how his parents deaths happened. According to the COO/NOTO tie in books his parents died on the same night that one of the Talons was watching his replacement and someone happened to threaten the circus. This was the night the Court planned to take him and obviously more than one member there. According to the zero issue Dick wasn't even Bruces' ward so what was keeping the Court from kidnapping Dick? They had all this influence but did nothing simply because Bruce Wayne took a shine to him? A man from a family that keeps pissing them off and "forced" them to attack?

Batman Inc #5 preview

Since last issues' spoiler caught my attention I was curious about this preview.

SPOILERS AHEAD

I forgot how much I miss this series

While tempted by some Marvel titles I think the only way I'll read Marvel again was if they published more MC2 Spider-Girl.

I loved seeing so many characters happy (though there were still a lot of sad stories) and the humor usually cracked me up.

Guess What's still Canon

Or at least implied to still be canon.

If you said For the Man that has Everything then you're right!

Nice to see these things getting nods.

Red Hood and the Outlaws #14

I really miss having a steady artist on this book.
SPOILER AHEAD

You know this picture from JL?

Spoilers?

Sword of Sorcery #2

This is such a good book. I haven't been paying attention to the charts to see how well it's doing but I'm sure some are over looking it which is a shame. There's great art and an engaging story filled with action. Little by little the world and it's characters are being fleshed out. This issue made me seriously fear for one of those characters' life.

Batman Inc #4

I had to get this just to see if any of it was actually explained.

Late SPOILERS AHEAD

Batman #14

I FINALLY got this after resisting the urge to see spoilers and it's much better than last issue.

Worlds' Finest #6

I don't like this series, I think I'll drop this again after this arc.

If you ever wondered what time travel felt like...

Later on in the issue Rip also tells them that they can only go to the bathroom if they don't, umm, leave anything behind.

I guess it's a good thing Rani wasn't with him.

Lil' Gotham Chapter 1 & 2

I never had an interest in getting digital comics until I heard about this series. It's an all age comics that has some goofiness but has a lot of fun.

SPOILERS AHEAD

Anyone get digital comics?

Because I want to get the two issues of Lil' Gotham but I never brought digital comics before. Does it download the comics or do you have to read them online?

EDIT: Nevermind I got both issues.

How context changes

Still another week until I get Batman #14 in the mail. I did recently get the RHATO trade. I don't get trades for everything but sometimes it's easier to go through issues in a tpb then track down the floppies. Anyway, the first thing I noticed was how they changed the reading order. Lobdell isn't always the most linear writer in this title, sometimes he explains things much later. He did this in the first arc by putting in a prequel to the events of #1 in between the last issues of the arc. This was the story of how Jason and Kori met.

According to the writer the idea was make new readers interested in these characters and keep them guessing for a little while. Then over time introduce more of their backstories, how they met, etc. So Kori was more distant, Jason was meaner, and Roy seemed more funny than haunted in the first issue. Over time we learned that Kori was more of a mentor and friend to Jason, one he didn't seem willing to get too close to romantically. Now that story appears first. I wonder if this would read weird to one picking it up for the first time or if they'd think it was an improvement.

It's that time again, DC Solicits!

We have some interesting solicits this time!

DC gives the Wonder/Super romance more attention

Sorry Lois and Clark lovers but DC is not only going to focus on the Wonder Woman/Superman couple in Justice League and the Superman titles but also in an upcoming book in Feb called: YOUNG ROMANCE: A NEW 52 VALENTINE’S DAY SPECIAL #1. I'm mildly interested for the other characters involved but not so much for this couple.

EDIT: New information!

• Romance is in the air in this very special Special!
• Wonder Woman consults Eros himself about her feelings for The Man of Steel.
• Barbara Gordon has always been too busy for romance, but could her role as Batgirl bring her back to the first guy she ever kissed?
• Following the events of “Death in the Family,” how can Catwoman ease Batman’s troubled soul?
• Aquaman makes waves as he treats his wife like a queen for a day.
• From the pages of STORMWATCH, Apollo and Midnighter celebrate Valentine’s Day separately but with each other in mind. Who—or what—stands between them?
• Dick Grayson and the daughter of Lucious Fox meet-cute!
• Plus: Perforated Valentine’s Day cards featuring the stars of these stories!

No real thoughts on the first story.
According to the information I read on the new 52 Dick and Babs never dated so he's not her first love. I wonder if it's Jason Bard.
If it's not a typo tying into DOTF then this should be interesting. If written right it could be a rather sweet story between Selina and Bruce. I love them as a couple.
Aquaman and Mera will always be awesome.
I never read anything to do with Stormwatch as I always got the impression that team was too over the top violent for me. No one I know seems to thrilled with the current series. Still it should be fun.
I hope they mean Lucious' older daugther as the youngest briefly dated Tim. I'd rather read about Tam and Tim. They were adorable.
Okay the cards are a cute little add on. But for $7.99 I'm only getting this if it's on discount.

Batgirl vs. Joker

Nope, not Barbara Gordon but Cassandra Cain. See one of the problems Cass faced, as far as writers were concerned, was how to avoid making her too good. Yes she would later become the best fighter in the world when she defeated Shiva (which somehow lead to her turn to a villain) but long before that there were concerns. This may be part of the reason for DC being reluctant to use her character or at least part of the reason. Of course it's debatable if DC is making that mistake with Damian but that's a story for another day.

 Her skills have been hard for some to understand as the writer infamous for her fall from grace, Adam Beechen, thought Cassandra fought others by reading their fighting style. That's not how it works. She reads one's body movement to determine their next move, their emotions, even if their lying. Cass ran into trouble with those who's actions were hard to read like Deathstroke (who was always thinking five steps ahead), Rose Wilson (who's a precon) and the Joker. Now most would assume the Joker would be easy for a great fighter like Cass. If I remember correctly most of the bats thought that as well. Only he was hard to read much less understand. Cass was overwhelmed by confusion and got hurt because of it. Interesting stuff showing that he can be threatening to every member of the family.

I haven't brought the book...

...but Power Girl at least retains some of her badass points for doing something long overdue. I'm actually tempted to buy Worlds' Finest now.

Also, if Barry Allen isn't already damned for Flashpoint he is now. ):(

The next wave of DC books

Congrats to those that have their favorite characters in new books or have titles their interested in. I just have no desire to get any of these books.

EDIT: Are two of them mini series or are they all ongoing?

A weird thought that occurred to me

...That Geoff Johns might use Booster in his new Justice League series since the JLI annual kind of hinted it. If so I'm not sure I'd get it. As much as I loved his run on Booster Gold the annual seriously killed my excitement for Johns writing the character. I mean it's one thing to reboot a character. I would have expected it in the relaunch. But they didn't, in the last issue of the BG series it kind of hints that his time as a Time Master was still in canon. Jurgens took him one direction and Johns ignored the entire JLI run and took away all the character development Booster got. That irks me greatly. I feel like if I read Johns taking on the character again it'd be more of the same. I mean what was the point?

That's kind of why I've been focusing on the bat family lately. As much as I love Booster and the Time Masters I just feel so annoyed when I think of them because I'm reminded of that annual.

Worlds' Finest # 6

Some books I feel like I have to get despite knowing it's not to my taste. I didn't really like Batman and Robin outside the zero issue but I got those issues because I love the Robins. I'm thinking of getting Batman Inc. #4 just because I'm morbidly curious. I'm on the fence about this book since I wasn't enjoying it beyond the flashbacks.

Spoiler thoughts on the preview under the cut

I guess tie ins are addictive?

I remember there was some complaints about Batgirl #13 barely having anything to do with the DOTF tie in but being advertised as such complete with the die cut cover. RHATO #13 wasn't solicited as a tie in although it had about a page and a half teaser. Just the idea of the evil Joker could do in those panels caused a mini uproar in the fandom. But now we find out that those same pages caused this issue to sell out and warrant a second printing. Huh.

Starfire Friend or Lover? Part 2 Kori and Roy

For me the problem with the first issue wasn't Starfires' sex appeal it was the odd status of her memories. What she recalls isn't clear and to many it looked like the guys were taking advantage of her. While this plot hasn't been fully explored there were tidbits and in order to explain how she hooks up with Roy I think I need to go over this first. 

All Saints Day reading

Yep there are even books that take place the day after Halloween. Well one that I know of for sure.

X-Man All Saints Day: This might not be a book to read if the X-Men history--or more specifically the Summers family--give you a headache. It stars Nate Grey, who's basically an alternate universe teenaged version of Cable. Nate was built as a weapon but he wasn't built to last. He's dying from his powers and not really sure what to do about it. On Halloween night he meets a kid that he can sense is dying too. Not long after he decides to follow up on some rumors of a doctor that preforms miracles. I suppose it's a little cliché when he arrives at what's basically a set up for a horror flick with superpowers. But there's some pretty tragic twists and at the end Nate has to decide how far he's willing to go to save the kid and his own life or if they should just accept their fate. Not ground breaking but I enjoyed it nonetheless.

Halloween reading lists

These are some trades I usually read around this time of year.

X-Men Inferno: Basically the start of Cyclops collapse into the bad husband period. His first wife gets controlled by demons and um, all hell breaks out. It links all the X-related characters at the time as they try to save the day. It shows how people are used, unfaithful, and how the characters own good intentions damn themselves. Plus a few bits that we'll all find ironic like Jean Grey freaking out over how powerful Iceman is.

Fantastic Four Unthinkable: While this story has pretty much been ignored since Dr. Doom shreds his honor to get revenge on his enemies it's a disturbing tale. It finally has Doom use the skill he excels at that Reed Richards can't hope to match: magic. What he's willing to do to achieve his goal is chilling, something that will make the face Joker wears in Death of the Family seem kind of tame. But it hits hard because Doom hurts the family the most through their children.

Spider-Man Revelations: I'm sure Marvel likes to pretend most of this never happened since a bulk of it had to do with Peter and Mary Jane Parkers' marriage and the child they were expecting. On Halloween night it all goes down as the Green Goblin comes back for revenge. Not only does he take away baby May (with her parents never knowing she lived) Ben Reilly faces his final fate as he defends his "brother." I know a lot of people hate the clone saga but this trade had a lot of the things I loved about it. The family Peter and Mary Jane were creating, which sadly Marvel broke apart. It also had extra scenes showing Ben fighting and the funeral the Parkers hold for their loved ones. Still if you're a fan of this period the great (but cancelled) Spider-Girl series shows baby May grown up and honoring her father and uncle Ben.

Anything else I'm missing?

When Social Services went after Bruce

A series of events lead a social worker to look into Jason Todds' death and the "unseemly" relationship Bruce seems to have with his adopted sons. It was an interesting read although the ending was a little weak. Below Tim has his interview and starts to clue into what the social worker expects.

Short Reviews: I, Vampire & Batwing

I got these trades for my birthday. I will say that even though I loved both of them their the kind of books I think I rather trade wait for because I believe the issues will read better back to back.

SPOILERS AHEAD

Not again Morrison...

Wingmans' ID. There's only one reaction to this.

SPOILERS for Batman INC. and mild-spoilers for DOTF (nothing big.)

Starfire Friend or Lover? Part 1 Kori and Jason

This has been bugging me for awhile because most seem to assume a lot based on the first issue and what critics against the series say. Let me start off by saying, no Kori does not have random sex with any guy that passes by. I was actually surprised by the lack of attention Kori gets from most of the opposite sex compared to some issues pre-relaunch where her sex appeal is almost always brought up. Of course since the first issue started it begs the question: What exactly is Roy Harper and Jason Todds’ relationship with Princess Koriand’r?

Red Hood and the Outlaws #13

I'm kind of curious why some tie in titles for Death of the Family are labeled as such for just a page tying in and others aren't.
SPOILERS AHEAD

Didio talks about Stephanie Brown & other missing characters

That bit about her being Robin just to kill her off is still a crappy move. But anyway interview here.

Sword of Sorcery #1

SPOILERS AHEAD

Batman #13

I'm glad I don't get all my comics through subscription. The wait is a killer.

SPOILERS AHEAD although this comic has been out for awhile.

Finally some Booster Gold news!

A mini bust based on his new costume! I call fowl for no Skeets but I guess we can blame Johns since he's apparently an anti-virus system now.

Another add onto my bat collection

Yea! They're making a new Huntress figure! (Though it's unpainted in the pictures.) It's about time she got a update!

Boo! They made yet another figure featuring Jason in a costume I hate! Really how hard is it to make a character in their most iconic costume? I detest the whole Morrison Red Hood arc and that outfit is horrible. Sigh.

EDIT: Wait Huntress seems to be Jim Lees' costume. Crap.

When Nightwing killed the Joker

During Last Laugh the Joker was killed/murdered by the hands of a member of the bat family. Yep, it actually happened in the main canon though only for a brief period of time. Believing Tim's dead Dick starts to wail on Joker. Thinking the whole thing is rather funny Joker puts salt on the wound driving Dick over the edge.

Tim shows up but by then Jokers' "gone." Someone (likely Batman) gives Joker CPR and Dick feels bad for breaking the rules.

The first page is Another example of why I believe Joker always knew who they were. I don't know why so many people are mad about the implication in newer stories. It's nothing new.

Early Bat-family solicits

SPOILERS I guess

Mothers of Robins

I have another week until I get Batman #13 so here's some more shots of Robin childhoods.

Both Jason and Damian grow up learning from their parents. But they differ because right from the start Jason learns what not to do based on his parents behavior. As a kid he has to take care of both of them. Damian doesn't really change until Dick starts showing him a new way. But even now he struggles with letting go of the things his mom taught him.

BTW did anyone notice Damians' teachers are the ones he's looking at in the sub scene?

Baby Robins

It's always neat to see how different characters start out.

Wait, Talia is how old?

Morrison apparently alluded to Talia being 26 based on an update on the event Ra's met her mother at. If that's true then Talia got pregnant with Damian when she was 16? Yeah, that's kinda of awkward.

Brett Booths' teaser image for TT #16

More DOTF art this time from one of the artists on the RHATO/TT crossover. Without context this does remind me of the first Spider-Man movie.

All in the Family

Skimming through my zero collection it occurs to me that here was a pretty big change to the bat books that’s not really talked about as a whole. In the new 52 the family has changed. Their no longer a group of orphans that end up together. Nope, more family members are mentioned and with them comes the potential for more stories.

The Die-Cuts Covers for DOTF

I like them but I'm not sure how their going to look over the normal cover. There's a hint of the characters' personalities (although I don't think Selina would have this reaction if the Joker was gunning for her.)

The coloring for Tims' mask isn't what it normally is, I actually thought it was Jason at first. Speaking of I guess we have another artist that's not a fan of the Rocofort face mask for Red Hood. Nevertheless great work.

I won't be getting Batman #13 until a week or so after it's released so it looks like I'll have to avoid spoilers for a little longer than I normally do.

Greg Capullos' Jason model?

Apparently I wasn't the only one that thought his Jason felt a little off. It was suggested (though not by Capullo) that this design is based off of Batman Under the Red Hood voice actor Jensen Ackles. While I'm not totally convinced the clothes and the hair look close.

The Return of Ted Kord and "classic" Question?

Looks that way as Grant Morrisons' Multiversity has the Charlton characters come together in the first one shot.

Is it real or is it a dream?

Greg Capullo has another teaser shot, though this one is more interesting.

SPOILER-ish thoughts under the cut

No, their not related

I get that people are exited over this teaser pic in Red Hood and the Outlaws #0 but come on let's be logical. Some of these suggestions I'm reading don't even make sense.

SPOILERS for the surprises in RHATO #0.

Writer clears up confusion with Teen Titans #0

Wow, the editors are still changing things without telling the writers. A hint of bad things to come from DOTF and one other thing I loved seeing mentioned.

Interview here. SPOILERS for TT of course.

Overview of Zero Issues

In order of favorite to least.

SPOILERS AHEAD

Teen Titans #0

The issue that split the internet in half before it was even out. By the way this entire issue is about Tim Drake's origin, Bunker and Skitter don't have theirs explored.

SPOILER AHEAD

Red Hood and the Outlaws #0

I held off on this one for a couple of reasons. After the Nightwing issue I didn't feel like reading any other zero issues for awhile. But the main reason was my leeriness at writers touching Jasons' backround, even one that's been writing him for a year. Not just because there are certain nuances that get over looked or misunderstood. In general writers take the poor kid growing up in a rough neighborhood in directions I rather not see. Plus Lobdell did warn this was a sad story that's not easy to read.

SPOILERS AHEAD

Batman and Robin #0

For some reason this one took awhile to come in. Will I like this better than the Robin arc?

SPOILER AHEAD

Jasons' adoption mention in DCnU

The talk about Cassandra Cains' adoption and the new 52 made me think of this. It might be explained more in the RHATO #0 issue but I'm holding off on reading that for a bit. I thought it was weird that Nightwing #0 didn't mention any adoption for Dick and I don't think he was Bruces' ward. (Have to re-read that section at some point.) Another fan mentioned that in the new 52 only Damain can have the title of son of Bruce Wayne. This confused me because it's brought up in RHATO a number of times. Usually in passing by Jason thinking of Bruce as a father but there was one panel where they mention what his relationship to Bruce is.

In RHATO #8 there's a flashback of a meeting with Tim and Jason exchanging information. While Jasons' flippantly refers to Bruce as "dad" Tim drives the point home on Jasons' connection to him.

Jason Todd: Hiding in plain sight. "Dad" would be so proud.

Tim Drake: Technically he's not your dad anymore. Not since you were declared legally dead, anyway.

I don't think that's correct from a legal stand point, you might not legally exist but you'd still be considered someones' adopted kid. But anyway if Dicks' not a ward or adopted then this still means Jason was the first bat kid Bruce adopted. On three different earths too.

Interviews on DOTF tie ins and an article on Amethyst

From the writers of Batgirl, Nightwing, Red Hood and the Outlaws and Teen Titans. Some hints at how Death of the Family will affect Barbara, Dick, Jason and Tim.

Plus a piece on the troublesome part of Sword of Sorcery #0. A few spoiler filled thoughts on the article.

The Robin Uniforms in the New 52

It was fairly obvious early on one of the changes the relaunch would have was new Robin costumes. What changed and what stayed the same.

Nightwing #0

Wow. Let's just say I can't wait to read what everyone has to say about this one. Or to put another way--

SPOILERS AHEAD

Batwoman #0 (Well the 2nd zero issue this series had)

SPOILERS AHEAD

When Bruce adopted Cass

I think it was mentioned later on, I want to say in Gates of Gotham (maybe?), but this was when Bruce revealed his intentions to adopt Cass. A lot of people don't know about this one because it was in the horrible mini series after her "drugged into being a bad guy by Slade" period and just before R.I.P. I don't believe Bruce has spoken on panel with her since this scene. Oh and what Tim/Robin means by Dick not being happy? Dick was written as a jerk that basically kept calling Cass a killer. It made no sense.

Just to recap: Bruce adopted Dick, Jason, Tim, and Cass. Damian is his bio kid and DCnU Huntress is his kid from Earth 2. Extra points to those that can put the kids in order by who was adopted first to last.

Sword of Sorcery #0

I've been lucky enough to steer clear of most of the spoilers this month. I'm starting this week with a new book starring Amethyst. A character I never read in another comic so I'll be seeing this whole thing with new eyes.

SPOILERS AHEAD

Solicits Ahoy

Open Letter to James Tynion IV / Review

My thoughts on the Batman #0 back up "Tomorrow"

SPOILER AHEAD

Batwoman #0 (the second one) preview

I wasn't thrilled with the last trade of this series so I almost forgot I was getting this. Seeing the preview reminds me of some of the things I missed from this title.

Worlds' Finest #0

Sit tight folks this one's a headache.

SPOILERS AHEAD

Green Arrow #0

My first official zero month read and the first page already endears me to it more than any of the bat-scans I've seen. Why? Because it doesn't use any "5 years ago" dates to staple anything down. It's "several years ago." Which is good since I'm going to ignore all of the dates anyway.

SPOILERS AHEAD

Batman and Robin #0 preview

Although I was less than thrilled the last time I got this title I'm collecting all the Robin books this month. I'm not sure how to feel about Damian in the preview but I haven't liked how Talias' been written since she become his mom. Hopefully I'll be surprised in a good way with the rest of the issue.

DC talks about the 52 and Zero issues

Some highlights from the DC Baltimore Comic-Con talk. I whited out what may be considered spoilers.

On the subject of “Zero Month,” DiDio said, “The goal for this was basically not to reset the button, but to answer some questions.” He later said the zero issues were created "to fill in the blanks of the past and set up the mysteries of the future.”


The Green Arrow (we’ll see him again on Earth-2), Booster Gold (We’ll see him in the “Justice League of America”), Ted Kord and Tim Drake (who will pop up as a major part of the Joker arc, according to Snyder) were all mentioned.


I'm not sure if the first part is a misprint since the character has an ongoing in the main 'verse as for the second I'm not sure I want to see what Geoff Johns does with the character in JLA as I'd rather have Booster stay in JLI as leader than be dragged into JLA. Talk about a demotion. Tim Drake playing a big part? Didn't they say that during Night of the Owls when he only made a cameo in RHATO and showed up in one panel of the book they promoted him for?

How come the Green Lanterns get all the figures?

Because new GL Simon Baz already has a new figure coming out. (Yes, I'm sure Geoff Johns had something to do with it as he's helped designed figures before.)

Which Green Lantern are you?

Just a silly little thing DC did on their blog.

Phantom Lady #1

I never read anything about the Phantom Lady before (except Infinite Crisis appearance. Yeesh.)I thought about it and figured it might be fun to read more female lead books, even if this is a mini series. This is a very short review since I don't have too much to say about it.

SPOILERS AHEAD

Creators call out cyberbully

Glad to see this stuff doesn't get ignored.

Green Arrow #0 Preview

This weeks' DC previews are up and while I wouldn't get this one in the mail for awhile a couple of things caught my interest.

No real spoilers, mainly discussing his age.

Justice League International Annual

I decided to pull the bandaid off and just read this thing.

SPOILERS AHEAD

Worlds' Finest #0 Preview

Oh I like this preview, if the whole series turns out like this I'd love it. Honestly these pages are better than anything that's been in the book so far. A look into the girls' home life, how Bruce and Clark differ as parent figures, and the awesomeness that is Selina. Love the nod with her costume. If nothing else this may have me reconsidering dropping the title or at least reading another issue.

On another topic: Yes I got the JLI Annual, but I haven't been able to get past the first page. I just have no desire to read it right now. One thing was spoiled for me before I could get the book despite doing everything I could to avoid spoilers. This is going to seriously piss me off, isn't it?

1 of 10 top Booster Gold Stories

1. Booster becomes a leader and meets his match

Justice League: Generation Lost. I admit it took me a while to chose the one spot and yes this is for the Booster related parts. I picked this one because of how well it develops the characters' journey and explores things that weren't really seen in other books. It even promotes Skeets from a sidekick to an active member of the league. Skeets fits in well as he provides information and is even treated like an equal. While other writers would backtrack on Boosters' character development to have him relapse in his grief over Ted Kord (an issue that had already been accepted under Jurgens) Winick doesn't focus on that aspect. Sure Teds' death is mentioned at least twice since Booster is fighting his friends' murderer and the lie that's spread over Teds' death. But those are really minor points in the story. Booster takes command so naturally his teammates are shocked to realize their following him.

This touches on plot points that have been developing for years as Booster proves how much he's grown as a Time Master. He doesn't have to struggle with being an outsider in the superhero community that never gets any credit for his deeds. He's already living that life and provides strength to his teammates. At the end most of them are in the dark about his true work but all of his friends know how heroic he is. Issues like dragging Jaime along are briefly brought up further cementing their growing relationship.

The thing that really helps this one stand out is the fact that Booster Gold finally has a worthy arch-enemy. As much as I adored the Broderick story the character more or less had a truce with our hero. Mr. Mind and most of the Time Masters were more known for being rogues for other heroes. While Black Beetle had the makings of a good villain we don't know his backstory. We don't know if he has any personal history with Booster and really he seemed more like a foe for Rip. For the first time since Maxwell Lord went bad he has depth. His fondness for Booster is clear and makes a compelling story. It's making the best out of a bad situation (making Lord a bad guy in the first place.) Max helped Booster live out his dream of being part of a Justice League. It's only logical that bond should be explored.

In the flashback Max likes how gutsy Booster is and it doesn't seem farfetched in saying he sees someone that shares the same qualities he has. More than any other story since we learn of Boosters' destiny this tale fills in a gap between Booster the class clown and the Time Master. I'm not sure if Winick realized this when he wrote it but think about it. While heroic Booster doesn't quite have the drive nor the skill with outwitting his enemies. I kept wondering where he'd learn these things since he becomes the best of the best. When he becomes the man that teaches Rip Hunter how to mastermind a chessmaster like plot that keeps him ahead of his enemies. Max Lord is the type of foe that instantly fills in that gap. He offers something all good enemies give the hero, a challenge they have to meet to better themselves. It's a shame that plot like so many others will never get explored.

New Justice League book and the other news

Apparently Liefield has said some unpleasant things since my last post including a fight with Scott Snyder (who comes off looking far better.)*sigh*

Anyway the main news that broke was a new Justice League book. I have no interest in said book or really see the point in it. I kind of feel like JLI was forced to shut down just for this book to exist. Maybe that's not true but the idea that a bunch of misfits coming together under the management of a government? That kinda sounds a little like JLI. At least people got back some of their favorites (yes Vibe has fans), J'onn is back in a league and Catwoman gets more focus. Other than that I really have no interest. I suppose this means more cancelled titles and more new books. Bleeding News thought there might be something for Stephanie Brown in the works but according to Didio there are still no current plans.

More Complaints from Creators about DCnU

This time from Liefield. Here's the telling bit:

“This is the 4th time I quit in the last 4 months. This time it will stick,” he wrote from a theater, where he was watching The Expendables 2. “Never thought the Image section of my book would be topped. This last year was a humdinger. The DC52 chapters will go top all of it. [...] Reasons are the same as everyone’s that you hear. I lasted a few months longer than I thought possible. Massive indecision, last minute and I mean LAST minute changes that alter everything. Editor pissing contests… No thxnjs. Last week my editor said ‘early on we had a lot of indie talent that weren’t used to re-writes and changes … made it hard.’ Uh, no, it’s you.”

Edit: Not an interview but I'm still tagging it as one.

Patrick Gleasons' rejected Batman and Robin 10 cover

I like this design better than the one we got. Plus he got the heights closer in this pic of the Robins. (Dick isn't the tallest, he's 5' 10".) Still doesn't makes sense to have them all together like this but I love the look.

2 of 10 Top Booster Gold Stories

2. Booster starts on his new path

Basically just his parts in 52. This one was hard to decide because 52 is so epic. It's in the number two spot because I didn't feel we got enough of a spotlight on Booster, at least who he really was. For a lot of this he's pretending to be someone he's not. First the kind of shallow jerk most people think he is then under the guise of  a new hero, Supernova. We don't get to see and hear the real Booster until he confronts Mr. Mind. Regardless this is a must read for any Booster fan. It touches on a lot of pieces from his history while expanding his own story for his new role in DCU.

Booster deals with his frustration in finding his place in the world and seems to get worse in his sponsorship shilling. (Anyone else wince at the logos on the coffin?) On the way he learns he has to save his other friend, Skeets, and strikes up a partnership that will change his life with Rip Hunter. Daniel Carter is introduced and while he doesn't seem special at first he has his own moment of awesomeness that proves that this family will always have moments of glory while using football to save all of creation. (It makes more sense in context.)

Only by reading through it again can you fully understand and enjoy the little twists. The irony of Lex Luthor seeing Supernova as his new enemy and the perfect heir to Supermans' legacy. Or Clark Kent being Supernovas' biggest supporter (plus the what the hell look Supernova has when Clark jumps out to get an interview with him.) Yes, Superman canonly said that Booster acted like a professional hero even if he didn't know it. Supernova IS Booster, I mean rereading the story makes it easier to see that he obviously has the same reactions (only he plays it without humor.) His concern for a child, the smirk on Supernovas' face when Lex draws the Supeman symbol over the glass, it's all there. You got to love the irony of Booster Gold throwing everyone off just to act as a masked superhero. The pathos are still very strong, just read the fight he has with himself. All the things Supernova says? Ouch.

But in the end Booster overcomes his own fears about himself. There were great heroes in 52 but I think it's rather obvious who was the star player at the end of the day. In a series about lesser known heroes taking center stage after the big names step out is it any wonder the greatest is the one no one knew about?

Red Hood and the Outlaws #12

Roy tells a story plus we learn what all aliens really think of humans.
SPOILER AHEAD

Batman and Robin #12

SPOILERS AHEAD

Working relationship with the Batfamily & Jokers' cunning

Just my thoughts on this recent article on Comicvine. It explores the idea of Jasons' place with the family (if he would still have one, etc.) It also bringing up the idea of the Joker being a mastermind in a situation that kind of fell into his lap.

EDIT: Both the article and my thoughts on it was written prior to RHATO #0 so all the talk on DOTF is based on the pre-relaunch version.

Unsolicited thoughts on upcoming comics

Semi-spoilers, I guess.

Changes to Lady Shiva? How Cass is affected

I raised an eyebrow at this one.

Guest artist and news for RHATO

This doesn't surprise me (okay the guest artist does because I thought the new one was on board already) but I'm pretty excited.

Previews for Batman & Robin, Batgirl and Batman

I think we all saw this turn in the Robin arc (even though it doesn't make any sense at this point.) Despite not being thrilled with the first couple issues I'll likely get it because I'm a sucker for Robins. I'm only coming back for the zero issue after this.

The Batman issue looks cute and while I'm not a fan of Batgirl I did like the guest appearance.

Greg Capullo teases DOTF

Capullo has done a number of teases already with shots of Gordon, Bullock, Damian, and such. Nothing really spoiler-ish of course. Now he shows some other members of the bat family.

3 of 10 Top Booster Gold Stories

3. A different Blue and Gold team up

Booster Gold #26-27 Vol. 2 I think this is the best way to end Boosters' grief over Teds' death as he finally accepts it. (Yes, I know other writers ignored this story but that didn't really make sense to me.) This respects their friendship but it goes a little further than other stories. This two parter isn't just about letting go it's about respecting a legacy. What really shines is the growing bond between Booster and Jaime Reyes. It's really more of a brotherly bond than a mentorship. Jaime sees Booster in his grief and while he doesn't owe him anything Jaime shows maturity by seeking him out. While the Black Lantern Ted Kord mocks Jaime for "ruining" his name Jaime holds it together to be there for Booster. Because he understands that no matter how hard it is for him it's a million time worse for Booster to deal with an undead best friend.

Booster accepts Jaime as Blue Beetle and encourages him to be himself. It's a wonderful way to honor what came before and the start to the new Blue and Gold friendship. And before you ask, yes this outranks the Johns run. Long story there.

4 of 10 Top Booster Gold stories

4. Geoff Johns run on Booster Gold

Booster Gold 1-1 million (but really it's only 12 issues.) Vol. 2. Yeah this is kind of cheating but it really feels likes one ongoing story. Booster once again tries to make it to the big league only to discover that he has to throw it all away for the greater good. This run uses a lot of threads from other stories to weave a fast paced, fun and some what tragic tale. 52 dealt a little with Boosters' anger and frustration with Ted Kords' death, this deals with his denial and bargaining stages of grief. (He's a time traveller so it makes sense if the stages are a little out of order.) We also meet Boosters' father, something that helps us understand why Booster's always the underdog.

Michelle returns, Booster gets some big heavy hitters added to his rogues gallery and while he doesn't know it Booster starts the Time Masters. It's a really touching story about his struggles with loss and being unable to shake the image of the class clown. This touches on some things brought up in my list as his selflessness doesn't go unnoticed. Because Batman always knew Booster was a hero and won't let him give up on himself. A plot that gets carried through to later storylines. But the best thing about this run is the twist that Rip Hunter is Boosters' son. It's proof of how far he's come from the reckless guy that wanted to make a few endorsements. Even if Booster is the greatest hero you'll never know everyone will know his son and the great things he does, even if it's under a different name.

JLI #12 and Batwing #12

Short reviews. Highlight to read.

SPOILER AHEAD

Worlds' Finest #4

This issue and #0 will decide if I stick with this series for the long haul or not. Since the cut isn't working for me highlight the text to read.
SPOILER AHEAD

Winick talks about writing JLI again

It's nice to see he has good memories writing JLI in JLGL. Much as I like Jurgens I kind of wish Winick wrote the JLI from that book. Gavril might not be dead and Jaime would still be buds with Booster.

5 of 10 Top Booster Gold Stories

5. Broderick makes his move

In my opinion this is the best issue out of the first BG series. It opens up with Booster trying to work off two extra pounds to keep up his image. Details like that is what I love about this series, there was a reason for normal humans to be able to do heroics. They worked for it. But there's two reasons why this is such a great issue. First is Broderick. The man hates Booster so much he followed him in the past to kill him. Broderick gives us a better idea how different the past is from their time and how disgusted he is in the present. Something that's a nice nod as Booster repeatedly says throughout the series how much he belongs in the past.

Broderick is a great bad guy that represents all of Boosters' past sins. He won't let them be forgotten even if the evidence proves letting Booster best for everyone. In his eyes Booster was a hero as a football player and became the worst sort of person by throwing it all away.

This story also highlights how resourceful and heroic Booster can be. Armed with just his flight ring he impresses Broderick and saves the day. In the end he leaves his fate in Brodericks' hands. A great story about obsession that makes me wish we'd see more of Broderick. No, I won't stop mentioning him.

6 out of 10 Top Booster Gold Stories

6. Booster finally joins the league

Justice League #4 In Boosters' own series he was near desperate to join the league. Sure he was more than a little boastful when Max offered him a spot but once he realizes the team had nothing to do with it? Booster deflates and sadly walks off. As he prepares a statement the Royal Flush Gang attacks. Booster goes after them and single handedly takes down most of the team. Batman takes interest in the battle ordering no one to step in. Once Booster finds out he's being watched he's far more nervous than he was with Superman. But Batman shows that he can judge a hero better than the Man of Steel. Not only does Batman praise Booster but he cracks a smile. This is the start of Batmans' soft spot for Booster and the heart of the team, Blue and Gold.

As Ace takes apart the league Booster joins forces with Ted for the first time. Ted realizes he can add more to the team and Boosters' shy but excited fanboy self gets a chance to shine. This story really is about the underdog who gets to live out his dream and have one of his heroes see him as an equal. (It's not the first time Booster met Batman though.)

7 out of 10 Top Booster Gold Stories

7. The Aftermath of Kooey Kooey Kooey

Justice League America #37 Too many people write Booster off as an idiot that will do anything to make a buck. He's not, and his frustration with not being taken seriously finally bubbles to the surface. The aftermath of the Kooey Kooey Kooey incident does help explore Boosters' character though it doesn't do anything positive for Ted. But that's a whole another discussion. What's really tragic about this story is that no one takes any of Boosters' complaints seriously until he quits. Proof that even the class clown has feelings and can take only so much.

When I read those pages with him trying to get his point across only to get more jokes in return? I feel for him. For so much of his life he's struggled for respect and once he's finally on the league it seems like he's always the butt of the joke. This reaction also reflects my own frustration with Booster being written off as a one note character that is only good for gags, dumb and selfish. Thankfully some of that depth of character is present here.

8 of Top 10 Booster Gold Stories

8. Booster Gold- Not James Bond but still a spy

Justice League International #17-18 Vol. 1. Batman chooses a team to go undercover with him in Bialya. His choices are interesting to say the least. Fire, who actually was a spy, Blue Beetle, who works much like Batman and finally Booster. He seems like an odd choice and he is the most well advertised hero in the group (although he wears a disguise on the mission.) Booster is still the rookie but Batman has faith in him and wants him over Captain Atom. Batman tells this to Fire as well when she worries and even says he needs the others help at one point. It's a fun arc.

The humor runs high with Booster and Ted but that's not why I like this story. It will seriously affect both men later on but there's something about Booster that really shines. His ploy for escape even catches Ted offguard. I'm told by a Legion fan that not many members are able to mentally "pull" the ring forward, that it takes a great amount of willpower. Yet Booster does it and frees them by knocking the guard out. Since the ring is from a time after Boosters' own one would have to assume he figured that out by toying around with it. He knew he could do it before he tried it. This shows that he can think on his feet and is one of the many times people underestimate him. Yeah, Batman knew what he was doing by choosing Booster.

I can imagine Snyders' Joker arc ending like this

It actually explains a lot when you think about it.

Worlds' Finest: Keep or Ditch?

The preview for 4 is out. I've been thinking this over after looking through the issues I have. I'm not sure how I feel about this series. It has some good points, some things that are kind of offensive and others that are kind of meh. I plan to stay on for at least the zero issue but even so I'm on the fence about this one.

Number 9 of 10 Top Booster Gold Stories

9. Booster loses his sister and decides to troll Superman (and Luthor.)

Booster Gold #23 Vol 1. This one I'm picking just because of how entertaining I found it. Booster acting like a jerk to his rivals--who kinda deserve it. I'm not counting the whole arc about Michelle dying because there really wasn't much mention of her until the second BG series. Still her loss marks the beginning of the end of this chapter of Boosters' life. It also gives him an excuse to mess with Superman and Lex Luthor. Literally hearing about Superman fighting a Booster-look alike after his sisters' funeral he saves his rivals life from the robotic double. Then gloats about it by waving a stray piece of kryptonite in front of Supermans' furious face.

Later on Booster decides to crash Lex Luthors' party to tell him that he knows (though can't prove since the evidence was destroyed) the robot was created by Luthor. See the two of them were at odds in the business field at the time and Luthor truly saw Booster as a threat he needed to crush. Booster tells him that the company they were fighting over, the one LL bought, was a ruse. Because Booster never wanted it since his information says the company will take a big dive very soon. Then he decides to one up Luthor again by whispering something into his (Luthor) dates' ear. Smiling she asks who's place their going to abandoning Luthor. Booster gives one last parting shot saying that next time Luthor wants to create a robot he better make a female one. Ouch.

Edit: Actually this is even funnier on highsight since Luthor DID make a female robot (a Lois look alike.)

Previews for JLI #12 and Batwing #12

For JLI and for Batwing.

Top Ten Favorite Booster Gold stories

#10 Booster meets his Idol Booster Gold # 6-7 Vol. 1

I'll be honest, this isn't one of my Booster stories but it's on the list because it's very important to the character. This is the first time Booster met the Man of Steel, someone Booster has wanted to meet ever since he was a kid. One wouldn't think he'd be a fan at first glance but there's a sense that he wants approval from his hero. It doesn't go as he hoped. It might have rubbed Superman the wrong way since Booster challenged him publically to get his attention.

The story isn't what you'd expect on a lot of levels. Instead of building Booster up by proving Superman wrong it turns out Supermans' experience has him in the right. (Although Superman quickly changes sides of the debate years later when Booster has come to his way of thinking.) But Booster isn't the only one that's shown as petty as Superman hates the praise Booster still gets from the public and Lois. It's a set up that will last for years to come with the two of them having a tension that slowly turns into respect.

Red Hood and the Outlaws #11

The cover changed, the figure Kori was holding that most assumed was Blackfire is replaced with one of her crew members. I wonder why she was there in the first place since no character like that appears in the book.

Anyway-- SPOILERS AHEAD!

Not much Booster but lots of Bats

I feel annoyed that once again we'll be saying goodbye to another Booster title. At present Booster and the bat titles are the main hook for me at DC. I'll try out new titles and a few character related books but I love those two the best. I'm looking forward to zero month or as I call it "Robin month." Five different Robin origin tales. I never read this run on Nightwing and we'll finally see what his Robin relaunch costume looks like. I might get into another Bat family crossover with DOTF (although I know I won't get Batgirl for sure.) I'm not really into horror but hey it starts at Halloween.

As for Booster, I think I'll do a top ten Booster Gold list of my favorite stories.

The old Robin rumor

Remember the rumor that there was a Robin book with the four sons of Wayne? Many assumed that the current arc in Batman and Robin will spin something out of that. Some still believe it. Of course there is a theory that Bleeding Cool came up with in terms of how DC is handling the situation with Stephanie Brown. I'm not sure if I buy into it but it'd be nice to think DC was doing a book with Stephanie in the fourth wave. Though I think it would be a team book.

Custom Talons

From what I can tell just about every main Talon that showed up during the Night of the Owls is made into a custom figure here.http://yfrog.com/mmmisqahj

Example of Scott Snyders' Joker

From his twitter account. I don't want to see any bat characters being forced to do that. 0_0

Showcase: Rip Hunter Time Master Vol. 1

Today I got a surprise as I picked up this weeks books (plus Batman and Robin #11 despite how I feel about it I felt I should read the whole thing) and found a real jem. I don't remember hearing about this series being reprinted. Natually I couldn't pass up the chance to read more of Rip Hunter. Although I have read a few of these through reprints and such. This is only issue 1 though 15 where the team wore their causal wear. The last half was better known for the green and read uniforms.

I enjoy what I've read. There's silliness, one plotline is repeated twice in this volume but it's fun. Not quite what I first expected when I heard of Time Masters but in a way it's quite charming. My only regret is that the letter pages aren't here. Apparently fans would write in with questions about history that the crew would answer.

Four more to go!

This week has Booster appearing in Blue Beetle #11. After that it's Batwing #12 then JLI #12 and finally the JLI annual. According to DC this is going to be the last time we see these guys for awhile. Keep your fingers crossed the big shocker ending isn't the usual type.

Or to put it another way, "the Ted Kord express."

Batman meme

I know I haven't done much Booster stuff recently. I'll make a Booster version of this at some point.

Tired of Creator bashing

I don't agree with a lot of choices made in comics. I quit Marvel over some of theirs. I don't follow the characters from ATS after they left IDW and were given to Darkhorse because I can't stand what's going on in the Buffyverse. I'm not thrilled with a lot of DCs' relauch choices. But I hardly think it's fair to blame the creators for things beyond their control.

Another Bat family Controversy and other shockers

Although this one deals with a male Robin.

DC snubs Steph in favor of Babs

Okay this is just cold. As for "iconic" versions of the character, this is the same series that had Bart Allen as a founder of the JL and Mia Dearden as Speedy, right? Also, Dick was Nightwing not Barbara.

Booster, GL and stuff

Things don't sound that great for Guy and apparently Kyles' dating history isn't as bad as it used to be.

Given Johns saying how Billy used to be this perfect little kid and this being more interesting...I'm a little surprised. Because this isn't usually the attitude writers seem to have towards moody kids. Well there's one exception I can think of anyway.

I think they mean the JLI annual not JL. Yea on being Booster centered but I'm a little nervous on what will happen to the team. Forget Wally West and Ted Kord I want to know where Rip and Michelle are!

I gotta admit I'm morbidly interested

I haven't heard too many surprises from SDCC which is a disappointment. Mainly details on things I'm already interested in like the zero issues and the Death Of the Family crossover. But one thing caught my attention:

“It sets the stage for ‘Hawkman: Wanted’...[where] Carter learns that when he is located on Earth he is an intergalactic criminal...he now has to prove his innocence.” The issues after that will cross over with “Green Arrow,” and include Red Hood, Starfire and Deathstroke."

Liefeld using Jason and Kori in a cross over with Green Arrow and Deathstroke. Liefeld. Let that sink in. I'm a little shocked. I want to feel bad for the characters I care about but I kind of want to get it for the shock value. Because wow.

If I get this I will post pictures.

George Perez gives some insight on DCnU

It's not that great. This does explain why there are a lot of artist/writer changes. This part in particular caught my attention:

"When an artists like Dan Jurgens, one of the fastest most professional in the industry, when I was working with him on Teen Titans, he was always he was three months ahead of schedule. I was having a hell of a time keeping up with him. On Green Arrow, he was basically trying just to make the deadline and not be late, because kept changing their mind on the stories."

Batman and Robin #11 preview review

This "review" is only based on the preview since I heard that it's the only time Jason and Damian interact. Since Robins are the main reason I was getting Batman and Robin I'll just sum my thoughts up here. A bit long.

JLI #11 & Worlds' Finest #3

I got these comics yesterday, according to the shipping papers that means it took four days to ship. That's not too bad but I might wait before I do more pre-orders because I love getting my comics the day their released. At least if their my favorites.

Unsolicited thoughts

Snyder Interviews

I read them all and I'm getting excited about this story. I'm not even a Joker fan. Most of the time I have trouble getting past the fact that no one--not the superheroes, other villains or even the law--has killed him yet. I know, it's comics but that and the fact the bat family has gone out of their way to save him are pet peeves of mine. Anyway, Snyder has promised that his story is self contained. Sounds like there will be tie ins after it's over but they don't need to be read to get the whole story. But the things I'm excited about?

No Comics this Week

Apparently I'll get them next week or a little after because of the fourth of July. I might be getting Worlds' Finest and whats' left of JLI through the mail but not RHATO. Because the wait is a killer.

Marvel Now?

Remember when people accuse the other company for copying the others' ideas? I know it's not a reboot, more like cutting the fat from what I heard but I don't have the slightest interest. I used to be such a Marvel fan too. Sigh.

Death OF the Family?

Scott Snyder talks about his next storyline. So the question is how this ties in to other ideas Snyder has.

Nguyen draws the Robins

Nguyen showing of his Robin piece. He included all of the Robins in normal canon although only three of them are in their Robin costumes.

Just some thoughts on Court of the Owls

Not really a review per se.

SPOILERS AHEAD

Did Morrison really go there again?

I haven't bought the issue, just seen scans, so correct me if I'm mistaken.

SPOILERS AHEAD (For Batman Inc. 2)

Red Hood and the Outlaws #10

Koriand'r returns to her post as captain bringing the Outlaws to space. It's awesome.


SPOILERS AHEAD

Testing Online Store

I've been giving this subscription thing a lot of thought. DC doesn't offer all the comics I want at their site so I'm going with one that has my books. I haven't gotten it but decided to do a test run of sorts. I pre-ordered a couple comics to see how long they take to get here and all that. I decided that if I do get a subscription I'll only get one of my picks. That way I can visit my LCS at least once a month (it's kind of a family bonding thing.)

I saw a couple books that tempted me a little with Marvel but not enough to get me to break my boycott. DC has gotten me to try new books and while I haven't kept a lot of them for various reasons I enjoyed the experience and the excitement that came with it. No, DC isn't perfect in the relaunch but I don't have any serious complaints with anything in my pull list. Speaking of pull lists Zero Month is going to be a bat month for me. I decided to get all the Robin books (Nightwing, RHATO, TT, Batman & Robin, Worlds' Finest) and although I wasn't really wowed with the Hydrology trade, Batwoman. Plus Green Arrow (for Roy) and Sword Of Sorcery.

If this works out I'll be getting a lot of these online. I'm wondering if I should wait to read them all in one sitting to compare them.

Batman being petty about Superman

I guess I just like seeing this sort of thing with these two. I just got Lego Batman 2 and I was laughing so hard at this one scene.

SPOILERS AHEAD Highlight to read

Lego Batman 2...Pure Evil

I mean it has to be. I was excited to hear that it had Damian as one of the unlockable characters. I did some looking online and it turns out all the boy Robins are unlockable characters. Which sucks--because their not in the same game! Confused yet? Damian, and Nightwing are downloadable through a pre-order special. While Tim is in all versions his Red Robin outfit (no idea which) and Red Hood (they didn't say which version knowing my luck it's the awful Morrison suit) are only in the handheld version of the game.* Why can't we have a game with all the bat kids! In fact have a lego JL game and have Lego Batman 3 centered around the bat family!

Apparently Cass got missed AGAIN. Steph appeared in the first game as Spoiler but she was one of the characters you had to put together with Spoiler parts. No idea if they will be in the build a character section. Huntress is back and this time Black Canary comes with her. BOP?

* Along with Superboy, Deathstroke, Azrael, Killer Frost, Deadshot, Green Arrow, Black Mask, Lady Shiva, Mr. Zsaz, Vixen, and Talia al Ghul. WHY couldn't they all be in the same version!

PS. No Booster Gold either. I'll still make a character in blue and yellow. But I'm more surprised that Green Lantern only seems to have Hal. At least those customs should be easier to make. Though I suspect it will be harder to get Guys' hair right.

Batman and Robin #10

Yeah, I caved and got this despite not feeling so confident on how certain characters would be handled. Much as I loved Tomasi GLC most gatherings of the Robins are badly written but it's hard to resist seeing the boys together. So how did Tomasi do? Warning this is long and has a lot of Robin feelings in it.

SPOILERS AHEAD

Happy Fathers' Day

Rip remembered to call his dad.





Don't diss Rips' dad Hal or you'll die before you were born. Yeah Rip knows your forcefield is the only think keeping him alive. He'll still mess you up Green Lantern or not. I think you realized that too.

Justice League International #10

SPOILERS AHEAD

Thought on Solicits for month 0

The Way JLI should end

I'm not talking about whether or not it has U.N. backing or couples getting together. It would be nice if we saw Rip and the others, but let's face it, that seems unlikely at this point. No, the one thing that I'd love to happen is for the group to have someone else join the group to help support it. Given OMAC if should be easy for it to happen. JLI should end with Maxwell Lord meeting Booster.

The Talon Book

I might have been interested if this book explored all the Talons and their history. I was especially taken with Xiao Loong from RHATO who was different from the others. Yeah it's iffy whether he could come back but come on, Talons are hard to kill.

Xiao would have made a great member for RHATO too. But instead of focusing on their history or even the tragic nature we get this?

Sounds kinda like Mr. Miracle. Sorry but if I don't really see the point of a Talon who isn't really a Talon (no healing powers and not undead.) Might be bias but Xiao really would have been cool.

The Third Wave

JLI got cancelled for these titles, who knows what else went. I'm hoping it's one of the books I don't like. Even if I'm not currently getting the books I used to get it's sad to think their go. For new books we have:

The Phantom Stranger by writer Dan DiDio and artist Brent Anderson

Nice to see another magic book I guess. But I have no interest.

Sword of Sorcery brings Amethyst, Princess of Gemworld by Christy Marx and artist Aaron Lopresti

Heard good things about the old Amethyst books so I might check this out due to curiousity.

Team Seven, by writer Justin Jordan and artist Jesus Merino

Is this a book with characters of cancelled series? I have no interest in Deathstroke or Grifter. Maybe for characters like Amanda Waller if this was the old Wall. But gonna have to pass.

and Talon Co-written by Snyder and James Tynion IV with art by Guillem March

Which I'll write about in another entry. Oh and they ARE doing issue 0s. Too bad JLI won't be around for that.

Worlds' Finest #2

SPOILERS AHEAD

SDCC Exclusives

This year the must have exclusives DC action figures are Tiny Titans (Robin, Beast Boy, Raven, Cyborg and Starfire), Polly Pocket Gotham Villain pack (Poison Ivy, Catwoman, and Harley Quinn) and surprise: a Death figure?

More Loose Ends?

I just came to the realization that JLI will be another book that never really resolves Booster related plots. He gets another love interest but I doubt there will be time to tie that up. I'd like to see Booster in an on panel romance. (I don't really count Firehawk since that was barely mentioned.) Plus we haven't seen Skeets, Michelle, and Rip yet. We went from 3 Booster related books to 1 then nothing? &%$#!

Justice League International #10 Preview

One of the last issues of JLI so enjoy it while it lasts. *Sigh*

Court of the Owls action figures ? Yes? No?

I'm always surprised when certain story arcs get a line of action figures (like the Return of Bruce Wayne wave) and other bigger storylines get ignored. I mean I know Blackest Night was big but the only one I got was the (Ted) Blue Beetle. I rather get the Talons than Black Lanterns. There's at least 11 introduced. Plus the new 52 designed good guys could be made too.

Cancellation Confirmed

From a interview with Judd Winick:

While the JLI are in the book with issue #12, has the cancellation of "Justice League International" affected the story you're telling at all? Or is what you're doing unaffected as it is specific to your book?
The script was written before the announcement. Even though the book is being canceled, I don't think the JLI is being disbanded so much as we're not publishing a book about it. I can't tell you how it's being wrapped up, y'all will just have to read the JLI title. In Batwing, we will leap in as a team, and Batwing as a member.

The Coming and Potential going of JLI

I'll have to get some extra comics:

Blue Beetle #11 (Booster appearance.)
Batwing #12 (JLI appearance w/Winick writing)
JLI Annual (Something shocking is hinted at, written by Johns.)

If JLI is being canceled (I'm still not fully convinced of this, call it denial) then I'm thinking about getting Worlds' Finest for my second long term book. I'm also thinking about going back to Teen Titans but I don't enjoy it as much (the art isn't my taste.)

In other news I recently got the Court of Owls and Black Mirror trades. May do reviews of them later on. Also got Batman Year One and loved it (except for that Gordon plotline I never liked.)

Back from the MotorCity Comic Con

I got a few back issues I was looking for. FINALLY got one of the Booster Gold shirts I wanted. Got a few other goodies too. There was a guy that claimed he was a comic expert but everything he said was pure B.S. (Guy didn't even know who Booster was.) I out talked him on comic stuff for both Marvel and DC. It was fun.

There was a major downer though. I wanted to get art from the artists I like. Maybe get a Booster picture a Guy Gardner, Mayday Spider-Girl or a bat pic. Some artists I was too shy to approach but I thought why not get something from Ethan van Sciver and go from there? Big mistake. His prices were too expensive for me and after that I didn't want to look at the other prices.

In related news I'm considering a subscription or two though a different site. I might just get one. JLI might be ending though I keep getting conflicting information. Apparently there are other series with lower numbers that should end before it does.

Red Hood and the Outlaws #9 & Worlds' Finest #1

A surprise guest star appears in RHATO ( one that many including myself have been waiting for) and a fridging in WF.

Unsolicited thoughts on the solicits

Because there's some interesting things at work in the month of August.

Justice League International Annual

Kind of have mix feelings on this. I love having more Booster (although I'm still on the fence about getting his appearance in Blue Beetle) but are they going to change the line up AGAIN? Where's Batwing and why would Jaime be part of this? I don't recall reading anything Didio wrote but hey, Geoff Johns is writing too.

The Tim Drake Controversy in Red Hood and the Outlaws

There was a big controversy over Tim Drakes' appearance in Red Hood and the Outlaws #8. Why did some people get upset? Were people overreacting? Was this out of character or was it character development?

RHATO #8 and JLI#9

RHATO starts the tie in for Court of the Owls and JLI gets a crossover with OMAC.

SPOILERS AHEAD

DC t-shirts

I really like a lot of the t-shirts DC has including a lot of the DCnU covers.

New fury aimed at DC for Worlds' Finest

The preview enrages fans starting with the first panel. I think that's some kind of record.(I would hid spoiler thoughts in white text but this new layout is weird. I'm having trouble getting the cut tag to work!)
I mean this is the most dismissive thing I've seen from DC. Sheesh.

No more money for comics

My main computer is still messed up which is a sure sign that I need to get a new one. (I'm currently using my I-pad.)But I'll already be sure to spend a lot of money next month. Not just because I'm getting more comics to try out for May/COO tie ins. I'm going to a comic con! Hopefully I'll get lots of goodies!

Zero Month?

The latest rumor via Bleeding News is that DC is marking their one year relaunch anniversary by making all of their books go to zero for a month. To do backstories, etc. I don't mind that although I'm curious what JLI would do. Much as I love Booster I don't want another Origin story. Maybe stories about solo adventures the team had?

Day 22 - A comic book second volume which disappointed you.

That's an oddly specific question. The only thing that applies is the DeMatteis/Giffin run on Booster Gold. If not for my love for Booster I would have dropped the title. I was planning to before I heard Jurgens was returning. I started dreading each issue and groaned outloud reading most of it. I mentioned this before so I won't get into details unless someone asks. Some people found the new Starfire offensive, I found this to be far, far worse.

Day 21 - Favorite writer.

This one is hard because I don't have a favorite writer. Since I mentioned a few before I'll talk about one of my favorites I'm fairly certain hasn't been brought up.

Scott Lynch did wonderful work in IDW with Angel and Spike. He was the ONLY Joss Whedon Verse comic writer that actually made me feel like I was watching the show. (Yes this includes the show writers and Whedon himself.) Don't get me wrong, there were some damn fine IDW book that I adored. But Lynch made it work so well. The characters had the right voices. The humor worked, the emotions hit the right notes and After the Fall remains the best work I've read from the ATS/Buffy books. As far as I'm concerned there never was a Buffy season 8 onward and Angel ended in the IDW books. Because you can't top perfection.

Justice League International #8

SPOILERS AHEAD

Solicit Thoughts

Semi-spoiler stuff under the cut.

Day 20 - Favourite super power or skill

It's funny but I can think about just about any power having a downside. Flying is likely the top of the list. As for skill, I always liked the things the bat kids could do.

Day 19 - Comic book city/universe you wish you lived in.

Metropolis I guess. It seems ideal. Never Gotham. While it seems cool to go to these places it'd be incredibly dangerous. But I'd like to go to Oa, Rip Hunters' time lab (come on I named my blog after it), Vanishing Point, and a million other places. I suppose visiting it is safer than staying there. Maybe.

Adding to my Bat collection

I haven't been able to write as much as I hoped due to work, computer trouble and planning a trip. But I did recently have a nice surprise: I was able to get a Birds of Prey set at a decent price. Not only do I have the much sought after Oracle but I have Black Canary and Huntress in their packaging. The box is a little banged up but I love the set. Oracle looks great, I half want to put the figure with the other bats but at the same time I don't want to open the box.

I paid under the usual amount for a Oracle figure to get the whole thing. Now I have: Alfred, Thomas, Babs, Cass, Steph, Carrie, Helena, Dick, Jason, Tim and Damian in my bat family set. Ironically the only figure I haven't gotten that's a must have is Bruce. I'm considering the new one coming out in May.

Day 18 - Favourite B-list character.

I think most of the characters I like are considered "B-list" by most. Instead of listing all those characters I'll explain why. Well there's several reasons besides appealing characters and stories. I usually root for the underdogs. In many cases their far more interesting than the "A-listers." The problem with the big guns is the need to keep them iconic hence sacrificing character development.

Day 17 - Most useless Villain.

I'm sure there are a lot of them. The most useless ones were in advertisements and those free PA comics. There was an X-Men one with the power to turn into ice cream flavors that made bad puns based on said powers.

30 Days

Day 16 - Funniest comic book/comic book scene.

I can't narrow down a particular scene but out of all the books I read Scott Pilgram is the one I think about as funny. The video game humor, the jokes you don't get in the first reading and the zany character. I love Scotts' gay roommate Wallace (yes that's how Scott introduces him.) There's two scenes I always think about with him. The first is his heckling of a rival bad of Scotts' that literally plays a four second song:

Wallance: It's not a race guys!
Singer: This next song is for the guy yelling at us in the balcony. It's called "we hate you please die."
Wallance: (Beaming.) Cool! A song for me!

The next part is when Ramona (Scotts' kind of girlfriend) fights Envy (Scotts' ex.) Envy is a popular singer that's well loved by her fans. They cheer Envy on and boo Ramona. Wallance (who loathes Envy) gives Ramona his support while mocking Envy. This goes on for awhile until Envy gets annoyed:

Envy: Still hiding behind your precious Wallance?
Ramona: I'm not hiding behind him!
Wallance: Oh, am I in the way? (Panel shows he is literally right in front of Ramona.) Sorry. (Runs off.) Gotta go pee.
Ramona. (Looking upset.) But I like your company!

Batman disses the JLI

I haven't gotten a chance to talk about this yet but yeah I heard about it.

Update about the subscriptions

According to the people I talked to this is a matter for the person who ordered these books for me as a gift. So I personally can't do anything except tell my family member something is wrong with the subscriptions. I did but whether anything gets done about it is up in the air at the moment. I get the feeling that if it hasn't been charged that's the end of that.

Red Hood and the Outlaws #7

SPOILERS AHEAD

30 Day Comic Book Challenge: Day 15

Day 15 - A Picture from the comic you’re reading right now.

It's under the cut due so semi-spoilers

Readers don't like character development?

Sometimes I really need a break from the fandom. I love character development and it always baffles me to hear fans berate it. I mean I like Jason Todd and UTH but I don't want every other story dealing with it or writers going really off the rails like Battle for the Cowl. I've seen this with Booster too! Fans that say he's not being written right because he's not like he was in the old JLI. Or writers being insulted for not doing it like "our version." I know change is scary but when it's in a positive direction what's the problem?

30 Day Comic Book Challenge: Day 14

Day 14 - Current (or most recent) comic-themed wallpaper.

Two of the ones I use a lot are the Supernova/Booster Gold reveal on the 52 cover and the Brightest Day cover spread with all the returned characters on their thrones. Just because of the epicness to them and the fact I adored those characters (Booster and Max.)I also had a Spider-man family pic with Spider-Girl (Mayday Parker) I liked to reuse. I think for Fathers' Day last year I forgot to take off the cover for one of the Starro issues which had a Starro controled Rip trying to kill Booster. Awkward.

Drop off point

I STILL haven't received my subscriptions so as I promised myself I'm going to have to drop some titles. Since I can't make it to the stores for the second and fourth weeks of the month those are the ones that have to go. I already dropped Justice League Dark because of the new writer but I'm tired of getting ordering books online because their never in the store. I know stores put comics on hold but only for a week. Which means I have to drop: Demon Knights, Teen Titans and Superboy. This makes me said because each of these books had something special.

Which means it's just JLI and RHATO for now. But this should help me save up a little for May which looks like a big month. My current but not final list:

JLI
Red Hood and the Outlaws
Teen Titans Annual (which is said to have A LOT of missing character)
Batman and Robin (Damian Count of Owls tie in)
Dark Knight (Tim Drake Court of Owls tie in by Winick)
Ravangers (I'm leaning towards not getting it but you never know)
Worlds' Finest (I'm curious how this will work and I'm fond of PJ and the old Huntress.)'

Granted some of these do fall on the 2nd and 4th weeks but I'll either wait or get them online. I just don't want that to become a monthly thing. I think I'll get Batman and Robin 10 as well for the all boy Robin reunion, which will be the first time all of them are together. I have a feeling it will sell out.

Black Lantern Ted Kord

Finally got this at a decent price. Not a bad figure but how does it hold up against Mattels' Ted Kord?

30 Day Comic Book Challenge: Day 13

Day 13 - A book you’ve read more than five times.

This would apply to most of my favorite series. I reread my favorite issues a lot after their released. I read vol. 2 of Booster Gold many times. The list goes on. It's one of the reasons I buy some trades of series I already have in floppies. I just keep reading them.

30 Day Comic Book Challenge: Day 12

Day 12 - A comic everyone should read.

Scott Pilgram. Well I don't think a lot of people will get it unless they played video games but this was a blast to read. Very witty and heartfelt. It deals with two characters who want to escape their pasts and through numerous mistakes have to find a way to deal with it to accept themselves. It can be completely off the wall at points, a little meta, but the insanity of it helps make it fun. Ex: with all the random fights (the evil exs being bosses) no law enforcement EVER shows up. Well there was something kinda close but that's played off for laughs. What impressed me was a couple of throw away lines or scenes you first read one way come together explaining events in a way that makes sense.

30 Day Comic Book Challenge: Day 11

Day 11 - Favourite comic book cartoon series.

Batman the Animated Series/Batman Beyond. They set bar really high with those. They were moody, funny, tragic, action packed and yet still okay for all ages. JLU to a lesser extent.

30 Day Comic Book Challenge: Day 10

Day 10 - A Creative team that disappointed you

Giffin and DeMatteis on Booster Gold. I didn't put all my reviews for their run on this site but they seriously pissed me off for most of it. Yes I will admit I liked a couple of issues and there were some good moments. But for me the bad outweighed the good. Their characterizations for most of the women were downright insulting to the point I'm shocked no one else called them on it. One issue going as far as making an ongoing prison rape joke at Boosters' expense (would anyone laugh if it happened?) The cast had a LOT of out of character moments. It pandered too much to their past and once again retended the same tired "Booster is in denial over his death/mourns Ted" scene that were so overblown it was embarrassing. Usually I'm not that hard on creative teams. Even art I can't stand I can't find it in myself to put down. But that's how this run makes me feel. The only thing I disliked more was ICBINTJL and FKATJL. Before that I liked this team.