Cosmic Comic Review #24! The Flash #5 and how I survived the outbreak..

Hey there comic readers,

    It would not be a new year without a visit from one of the many maladies that tend to break out with the arrival of winter. The past couple of days I have been victim to one such outbreak, localized within my household, a nasty cold/sore throat combo. I work outdoors a lot so I suppose this was just a matter of time, but luckily using a combination of Nyquil, gallons of green tea, and hours of gaming, it subsided just enough to make the trip to my local comic shop today to pick up some new reading material. Let’s take a look at what I grabbed this week:

Comic Pull List Jan/25/12

DC

All Star Western #5
Aquaman #5
Batman The Dark Knight #5
DC Universe Online Legends #22
Green Lantern New Guardians #5
Justice League #5
The Flash #5
Teen Titans #5

Yes it was an all DC week for me, but it did keep me entertained. I caught up on All-Star Western because I was curious to learn more about 1800s Gotham, so I grabbed All Star Western 1-5. I am definitely intrigued with it so far and plan to move forward with it. For the review this week I was stuck between three issues, but decided to choose one because of the interesting revelation at the end of the issue. This week I will be reviewing The Flash #5!

The Flash #5 
Written by Francis Manapul & Brian Buccellato
Art by Francis Manapul

    Issue #5 marks the end of the first Flash story arc, and the conclusion of the fate of “Mob Rule”.  The new Flash villain created at the beginning of the title was not something that grabbed me initially but after thinking it over I have had a change of heart. In my opinion, it’s always interesting to see a villain that has a personal history with the hero. This is exactly what you get with this villain, someone with a history with Barry Allen, and with that history comes all the baggage that follows. The nature of his powers combined with the training he received in his military career, gives “Mob Rule” the potential to be a big threat to Barry, the fact that he has the potential to figure out his identity only adds to this. Manapul and Buccelatto have definitely created a character that can go along way in the New 52 used properly, and this first story arc gave him some needed motivation moving forward. At the end of this issue we also get a glimpse of the consequences of Barry tapping into the Speedforce, which poses some serious risk to everyone around him. I really enjoy the focus Manapul and Buccellato have taken into fleshing out the nature of the Speedforce and the limitations of Barry’s powers as the Flash. For me the Speedforce has grown into this vast unexplained energy within the DC Universe and it is cool to see Barry’s manipulation of the Speedforce being explored since the relaunch. After issue #5 I can safely say that I will be staying current on the Flash, and I recommend others do the same, especially with what looks to be ahead. Two words, Captain Cold. When it comes to art on this issue, I am still enjoying Manapul's pencils on the Flash. I feel that his take on Barry Allen makes the character look and feel like a young Barry paired with the writing. I know some people who will disagree with me, but one thing I love is Manapul’s facial expressions, as they really bring the panels home for me. Overall, not a bad conclusion to the first story arc, considering they brought a new character in to the picture. Look forward to the upcoming issues.

Cosmic Rating 4/5


Good

- Explores more of Barry’s powers and manipulation of the Speedforce
- Good introduction for a new villain with a lot of potential

Bad

- The conclusion to “Mob Rule” was too obvious, not much suspense to what was going to happen

    That is it for the Cosmic Comic Review for this week. I have been reviewing a lot of DC titles lately so next week I will make it a point to do a Marvel title for the Marvel readers out there. Hopefully my pull list will be able to provide but if not I am willing to grab some extra Marvels to make up for it. That’s the kind of comic blogger I am folks, always ready to please the masses. Until next week, take care and happy reading!

Luca “Joriko” Baldassarra

Follow me on Twitter @Lucacosmic AND Check out my fan-page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Lucacosmic!

Cosmic Comic Review #23! Batman #5, & Shadowlines News!

Hey there comic readers,

    A quick personal blog this week then straight into the comic review. I am currently finalizing the acquisition of tables for the Toronto Comic Cons on March 10-11 and April 14-15. At this comic-con I will be debuting the comic I have written known as Shadowlines. Other Shadowlines merch will be available as well, on top of the four issues that have been released so far. The Shadowlines Iphone game, should be available in the next few weeks on the Apple Store. The first version of the game is absolutely 100% FREE! A paid version will debut in the Spring. If Shadowlines interests you, and you live in the Toronto area, more information will be provided as I am informed. With that out of the way let’s check out my Pull List for the week of Jan/18/12:

Comic Pull List Jan/18/12

DC

Batman #5
Captain Atom #5
Catwoman #5
Diablo #2
Green Lantern Corps #5
Nightwing #5
Red Hood and the Outlaws #5

Marvel

Amazing Spider-Man #678
Avenging Spider-Man #3
Carnage U.S.A 2of5
Ghost Rider #8
Uncanny X-Men #5

    This week my choice for what to review was very much not debatable. This is not to say that the other comics were bad. I was pretty satisfied with my pulls this week, but this comic just made me completely rethink how a story can be delivered to the reader. Without further delay, this week I will be reviewing Batman #5.

Batman #5
Written by Scott Snyder
Art by Greg Capullo

    It is not often that we get to see a vulnerable Batman. Over the years Batman has proven himself to be a master tactician, incredibly well organized, and someone who is capable of defeating even those who greatly outmatch him, mortal or immortal. In this issue we not only see Batman in a vulnerable situation, but we see him in a pathetic state that completely goes against this image of “Batman the Badass“. Scott Snyder breaks down the bat in a way that completely surpassed my expectations. Not only does he establish just how big a threat the “Court of Owls” is, but also how overwhelming they can be on their victims both mentally and physically. Batman is driven to depths we rarely see, and the comic portrays this desperate behaviour in a way that is not only believable but uses the art to place that dread on you, the reader. Greg Capullo and Scott Snyder have definitely proven that they are a formidable duo and deserve to be on this title. It is one thing to draw a character that is vulnerable and weak, but to use the comic medium in a way that the reader actually feels the confusion the character is experiencing, it is just another level of story telling. This issue is a visual experience. I have complete confidence that this issue is the best issue of 2012 to date to come out of DC. Batman #5 deserves to be read by comic fans, even if they have not been following this run. I very much look forward to what Snyder and Capullo have in store for us with issue 6 and beyond.

Cosmic Rating 5/5

Good

- Snyder writes a Batman that is not only vulnerable, but broken down into the man that he really is. A Batman we rarely experience, done extremely well.

- Capullo sets the bar by making using the pages themselves to bring the reader into the story. A fantastic collaborative effort, worthy of praise and respect.

- This is an issue to read if you truly appreciate comic books. I would recommend that those not currently following Batman do so now, this issue will sell you on it.

Bad

- I honestly don’t know how issue 6 will be able to top this.

    That is it for this weeks review, thanks for reading and I will be back next week. If you have any comments or questions feel free to post them on my Facebook page or Twitter, both posted below. Until then, take care and happy reading!   


Luca “Joriko” Baldassarra

Follow me on Twitter @Lucacosmic AND Check out my fan-page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Lucacosmic!

Cosmic Comic Review #22! Green Lantern #5, & Youtube?!

Hey there comic readers,

    Just another week in 2012, and the comics have come to usher in a new week. I mean really, Monday is not very welcoming, and Tuesday just can’t compare. To me, Wednesday is the first day of the week, new comics and all. Enough of that though, let’s take a look at my pull list for the week of Jan/11/12:

DC

Batman & Robin #5
Green Lantern #5
DC Universe Online Legends #21
Deathstroke #5
The Ray #2
Superboy #5

Marvel

Journey into Mystery #633
Scarlet Spider #1
The Amazing Spider-Man #677
The Incredible Hulk #4
Wolverine and the X-Men #4

I am pretty sure this week is the most even split between Marvel and DC I have had in a long time. It’s funny how my pull list has evened out recently. I’m glad to see both companies pumping out some interesting reads, hopefully these trends continue as we go deeper into 2012. As for me, I am in the process of booking booths for the comic-cons around Toronto in 2012. The first cons are set for March 10-11th and April 14-15th. I will be selling my first comic book, Shadowlines, at both venues. If you live in the Toronto area and are interested in meeting me or checking out my work, more information will be posted here as well as on my Facebook page as I get them, so stay tuned! Enough of news though, let’s move onto the Cosmic Comic Review for this week. This week I will be reviewing Green Lantern #5!

Green Lantern #5 
Written by Geoff Johns
Art by Doug Mahnke, Christian Alamy, Keith Champagne

    This issue was definitely something I was excited to read. We were left in issue four with both Sinestro and Hal Jordan in a very bleak situation. Not only had Sinestro armed the entire population of Korugar with Green Rings, as he did for Hal, but the citizens of Korugar made it very clear that they would not follow him. This issue however, gave as much as it took for me. Don’t get me wrong, I really like where Johns has taken Green Lantern. From Rebirth to Brightest Day, I really enjoyed the place Green Lantern is now, mainly because it has so much to offer in the right writer’s hands. After issue four, I was very interested to see what Johns was planning for Issue five. To be honest, at the end of it though, I could not help but feel upset. In this issue, Johns manages to give the reader a lot more insight into what exactly Sinestro is capable of, both as a leader of his own corps, and as a Lantern. It has definitely been solidified that Sinestro is not a Lantern to take lightly, even if he is a reluctant Green Lantern. As for Jordan, this issue for the most part, completely writes him off. Hal ends up in a position that can go virtually anywhere, but I felt that his character did not receive as much care as Sinestro had. If you’re looking for epic showdowns, this issue could also be a downer for you. Like I said, there is a lot to be said for the cool things introduced into this issue, some good ground work was laid in this first story. I can’t help but feel cheated slightly out of things that I had assumed were coming. Just can’t have your cake and eat it too I guess.

    As for art, Mankhe is definitely no stranger to the GL titles. As expected, he brings some stellar pencils to the table. I am going to go out and say, that his Sinestro is my favourite version artistically. Something about the way he draws Sinestro’s facial expressions just makes those scenes that much better. If there is one thing about this issue I can’t find a problem with is the art. You get exactly what you expect from all the artists in this book, Green Lantern fans should not be disappointed.

Overall, as I stated before this issue offers some great ground work moving forward. Johns has completely redefined the power of a Green Lantern in the New 52, as such the possibilities are limitless. However, as for how this story was concluded, it left much to be desired. Aside from the art from Mahnke, Alamy, and Champagne, I have to say that don’t expect fantastic things from this one, but it is still worth picking up.

Cosmic Rating: 3/5

Good

- The art is true to form, great panels and spreads
- Sinestro and his capabilities once again redefined, the most dangerous Lantern in the universe

Bad

- Hal not given as much spotlight as I would have liked
- The conclusion of the Korugar occupation was not what I expected
- Johns seems to be setting up something here, as such the issue is somewhat rushed

    That will end another week of the Cosmic Comic Review. I have been thinking about how to improve the blog over the past few weeks, and I have decided that at some point in the next few months I will start a youtube channel. I have started researching ways to bring comic news to you in a way that would best entertain and inform. I need your help! Let me know what you would like to see from my youtube channel so that I can bring it to life right. I have already found a place to record my videos which will provide experienced audio engineering as well as video production. I shall keep everyone informed as soon as production begins. Visit my Facebook page in the link below and leave your comments! Until next week, take care and happy reading!

Luca “Joriko” Baldassarra

Follow me on Twitter @Lucacosmic AND Check out my fan-page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Lucacosmic!

Cosmic Comic Review #21! Red Lanterns #5, first review of 2012!

Hey there comic readers,

    The first Wednesday of the 2012 has arrived, and as expected the first batch of new comics has made its way from my local comic shop to my house for some much anticipated reading and reviewing. So buckle up boys and girls, this is the first Cosmic Comic Review of 2012. Let’s take a quick look at my pull list for Jan 4/12:

Comic Pull List Jan 4/12
 
Dark Horse

The Goon #37

DC

Action Comics #5
Batman Detective Comics #5
Red Lanterns #5
Stormwatch #5


Marvel

Uncanny X-Men #4

    I really like the choices I had this week, it was a very tough call. All in all, it was a great way to start my comic reading year. Lots of action and great story in this week’s pull. Sadly, I can only review one comic so this week’s review will be on Red Lanterns #5!

Red Lanterns #5
Written by Peter Milligan
Art by Ed Benes & Diego Bernard
Colors by Nathan Eyring

    If you have read my previous review on Red Lanterns #4, you will see that I was very excited for how Milligan was directing the story. I really love an issue that sheds light on to the history of characters. When it comes to Red Lanterns, who are generally considered mindless, this opens a whole new world of possibilities for what can happen in this book. After this issue, we now see several sentient Red Lanterns. Atrocitus is no longer alone in his mission to enact a crusade of rage fuelled vengeance across the universe. The Red Lantern Corps just got a whole lot more interesting. Milligan definitely raised the bar in this issue, and has me so excited for what is to come. The addition of personal perspective and motivation among the Red Lantern Corps members adds a whole new dimension to Atrocitus’ corps. What were once mindless followers, is slowly becoming a group of cunning and merciless Red ring slingers who will actually question their leader. If you enjoy it when Hal goes A.W.O.L., imagine an A.W.O.L. Red Lantern. Did I mention we see a new Red Lantern too? From a little place in Sector 2814. Dex-Starr just got a partner. Don’t think I have forgot about the art in this issue, Benes and Bernard keep the action rolling with some beautiful pencils. From Ysmault, to flashbacks, to Red Lantern recruits, you are treated to some great panels from page to page. Eyring meets there skill with some impressive colors as well. I especially love Skallox’s flashback, notably the final scene. My only problem with this issue, involves the seemingly ignored member of the Red Lantern trio that was recently enlightened. I hope that Milligan will cover his back story as well soon, though it kind of frustrates me that it was not done this issue. Overall, I am very pleased with this issue and the promise of things to come from this title. Check it out!

Cosmic Rating: 4.5/5

Good
- More Enlightened Lanterns
- A Corps no longer single minded. How will this effect Atrocitus?
- More Lantern Lore! New Red Lantern!

Bad
- Somewhat rushed pace, some flashbacks left unexplained. 
- Uneven spotlight.


    That will conclude the Cosmic Comic Review for this week. I hope that everyone had a great holiday and is ready to kickstart 2012 strong. Should be a big year for the Cosmic Comic Review as I have a lot of plans in store for improving the content and quality. I’ll do my best to keep providing enjoyable and informative reviews! Until next week, take care and happy reading.

Luca “Joriko” Baldassarra

Follow me on Twitter @Lucacosmic AND Check out my fan-page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Lucacosmic!