BATMAN ETERNAL #1 (REVIEW)

Batman Eternal #1

Writer: Scott Snyder
           James Tynion IV
           Ray Fawkes
           John Layman
           Tim Seeley

Artist: Jason Fabok

Cover: Jason Fabok
          Tomeu Morey



The Rundown:
The story begins where it is set to end. Batman beaten and battered, tied to a broken Bat-signal, as the city burns around him. Flash forward to the present where Harvey Bullock is picking up a new recruit who was heavily sought after by Jim Gordon himself, Jason Bard, from the train station. Elsewhere, Gordon is in the middle of a gun fight with Pyg and his henchmen, protecting some children while waiting for Batman to make his entrance. Which he does just in time to save Jim and the kids from Pyg's gun totting airplane. Batman and Gordon pursue Pyg and his men, with Gordon taking the stray and Batman focuses on apprehending Pyg. Jim Gordon follows the man onto the subway tracks and has him cornered while ordering the perp to drop his weapon. After a count of three, Gordon fires a shot, but it passes through the man, hitting an electrical box behind him. This causes an explosion and a fire to start on the tracks, quickly followed by the derailment of the approaching subway train. Batman is able to save Jim Gordon, and warn Bullock and other officers who arrived at the scene.
The damage is massive, and the death toll will be enormous. Acting quickly, Hady calls for the arrest of Commissioner James Gordon. An act that is carried out by a hesitant Jason Bard who's on his first night on the job. But, is put at ease after Jim gives him his blessing to place him under arrest. Flashback to the "end" of the story, where we once again see a bound, broken Batman with a voice asking him if he can see the grand design in it all.

The Review:
An extremely well done initial issue for the new weekly Batman series. The story felt like it was the beginning of something huge and eventful. It left us with tons of questions and of course anticipating the next issue and how all of this plays out. From page one we are left wondering who was able to get the drop on Batman and engulf Gotham City in flames. Is it a new villain? A returning villain coming back in a huge way? Even the events involving Commissioner James Gordon left us with quite a few questions. Is Jim losing his mind? If not, then who is working him this way? And even with Jason Bard, are we about to watch Jim Gordon groom his future replacement? Or is he a part of what is happening? The appearance is given, but even Bard's backstory is very similar to that of Gordon.
The art work was top notch from start to finish. With almost every single panel telling the story nicely and being visually appealing. With it being a weekly title there runs the risk of having to speed through the work, here is hoping that upcoming weeks are just as good as this one was.
Overall, it was an amazing issue, with a team of writers (although three of them are consultants) that big it is expected that the story would be up to par, and in this case went above and beyond that. As did the art, and they complimented each other nicely. What is even better, is that we won't have to wait a month to see what happens next!

For other Reviews, News and more on Comic Books, Movies, TV Shows, Video Games and even Wrestling! Head on over to The Non-Geeky Nerd and check things out!

BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT #29 (REVIEW)

Batman: The Dark Knight #29

Writer: Greg Hurwitz

Artist: Jorge Lucas
          Ethan Van Sciver

Cover: Ethan Van Sciver
           Hi-Fi




The Rundown:
Things pick up where last issue left off (find review for #28 HERE), with Batman plummeting from the sky. Falling towards the city streets below after a battle with the Abraham Langstrom's version of Man-Bat. Although nearly ripping himself in half, Batman is able to save himself from certain death. He makes a quick stop at the Batcave and Jim Gordon's office before heading to Langstrom Mansion, to confront Abraham who is back in human form enjoying a meal. Purposely keeping his words in a theoretical manner as to not implicate himself, Abraham explains to Batman why he chose homeless people as his victims. Stating that nobody would miss them, to which Batman replies, that he misses them. Batman then heads to Kirk Langstrom's Lab to ask for his assistance in stopping his father, already having the antidote, he needs help administering it. Batman says that he thinks he has learned something from Kirk's actions in Detective Comics #19.
Abraham awakens and injects his form of the Man-Bat serum, transforms, and heads out into the city. He smashes his way into a homeless shelter looking to feed, when one of the homeless men takes charge and directs everyone out of the room to safety. Man-Bat attacks the man, sinking his fangs into the persons chest. While he feeds, it is revealed to be Batman, who has apparently ingested the antidote and sacrificed himself so that the antidote would make its way into Abraham's system. Batman is barely able to hang on long enough for the antidote to take effect, and reverts Abraham back to his human as the police arrive to catch him red handed.

At his trial, Abraham Langstrom is let go after pleading temporary insanity. He is proud om himself, joking with the media until a homeless child tells him that he killed her father. Abraham's demeanor changes quickly as he says no more questions and returns to his home. While home, Abraham Langstrom tells us of how he now waits and watches to make his move. While the city (Batman) watches him right back.

The Review:
The long story arc of Man-Bat, or Man-Bats, was brought to an end nicely. Using the events from Detective Comics #19 brought things around full-circle. At times it felt as though they were over saturating the Man-Bat character with the addition of She-Bat and an alpha form of Man-Bat. However, with a pretty good story by Greg Hurwitz, it all made sense  and added to the character of the New 52 version of Kirk Langstrom and Man-Bat. It helped that they kept the Man-Bat serum within the Langstrom family (with the exception of the al Ghul's army of them) and not some random character, as now there is room for future stories involving Kirk and Abraham, their father-son relationship problems and now Man-Bat issues.
The art was done by two artists, with Ethan Van Sciver continuing on his work from last issue in the first five pages, and Jorge Lucas taking on the rest of issue #29. Ethan's work was top notch, and preferred of the two. The title page was double-paged, and looked amazing. Almost looked 3-D. Now, Jorge's work wasn't bad, it was a touch rough, but it did its job and told this story well. It didn't help that the two styles were very different and did not transition into each other well. His final panel on the last page was top notch itself.
Overall, it was a solid issue getting a 4-out-of-5, and was a good ending to the Man-Bat story arc which I'd give 3.5-out-of-5. It will be interesting to see how soon they choose to involve the character, or even the newer version in Abraham Langstrom's Man-Bat, after almost over using the character within on story.

I thought that the series was ending on issue #30, however it looks as though this was the last installment of Batman: The Dark Knight. Perhaps it was simply a mistake over on DC Comics and there will be an issue 30. If not, they ended this story arc in a manner that works as a finale for the title. I don't really consider it the end, as more of a renaming with it is simply making room for the new Batman Eternal series. But overall, it was a decent title and was great for giving us some of the new origins for Batman's rogues gallery. Hopefully something that the other Bat-titles will continue on. For more Reviews, News and more on Comics, Movies, TV, Games and Wrestling be sure to check out The Non-Geeky Nerd! Until then...

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HARLEY QUINN #4 (REVIEW)

Harley Quinn #4

Writer: Jimmy Palmiotti
           Amanda Conner

Artist: Stephanie Roux

Cover: Amanda Conner





The Rundown:
Story begins with Harley covering her bleached white skin with some flesh toned make-up while getting ready for her new job at the nursing home. On her way out she bumps into Tony and they work out a deal where he builds something for Harley, she will let him live rent free for four months. At the nursing home, Harley is having a session with a lady named Mrs Rubenstein, who is telling Harls about how her family never comes visit her. Ever the softy, Harley is choked up a bit by the story. Harley has her next appointments rescheduled to later tonight and proceeds to leave the nursing home.
At a home in the suburbs, a young boy is playing video games and his father is in the basement playing with his train set, while the wife and mother is holding a "Pleasure Party" showing off various "toys" to her female companions. Harley Quinn crashes the party, through the wall riding a bulldozer, and then proceeds to roughly bind the family. She then throws them in the trunk of a car before driving off. While making a stop at a diner to grab herself a meal, Harley is confronted by yet another assassin looking to cash in on the bounty of HQ's head. Before stabbing him in the heart with her fork, she learns that is "Bubba" who set this all up because of her botching a job she was hired to do for him.

Later on, Harley arrives to the the roller derby late, missing her teams game. After asking how she could make it up to her teammates, one sarcastically says crippling the team that beat them would do the trick, HQ takes her seriously and proceeds to run the other team down with her car before driving off. The thumping noise reminds her of the "junk in the trunk". While at the end of a pier, Harley proceeds to tell the family about what Mrs. Rubenstein told her, as she proceeds to kick the son and wife of the edge. She allows the husband to speak and he informs her that they do visit his mother and it is due to her Alzheimer's that she doesn't remember the visits. Harley quickly realizes her mistake, having forgotten to read her patients files. She unties the man, who attempts to save his family from drowning, diving head first of the edge. Turns out it was low tide, and the family is on the beach below safe and sound.
Back at the nursing home, Harley's rescheduled appointment shows up, a man named Sy Borgman. Who informs her that he knows who she really is and how she got the job here. He also tells her about his younger days when he was named Syborg and worked for the Government. He and the country needs her help to finally finish his mission. Harley Quinn agrees to help the old man out as the story ends.


The Review:
Another issue keeping with Harley being a light amongst a dark DC Comics universe. She may be a villain, she is still a bubbly, big heart gal who just happens to be crazy as hell, and has a definite mean streak if provoked. Jimmy and Amanda delivered exactly that, and the innuendos were quite funny and well done. As really, only adults reading the "Pleasure Party" panels really had an idea of what was for sale. Very much like 60's Batman television show was. It may have been just me, but also keeping with the origin of Harley and how gullible she is with her patients and their stories, and seemed to be a reference to her relationship with The Joker. I am hoping this "Bubba" character turns out to be either a bigger named villain or if it is a new character, then someone who is displayed as one and not some throwaway bad guy. Series is only five issues deep, but would like to see Harley develop her own little section within DC Comics. Her own villains for sure. I did like the swerve involving her "killing" the family when she dumps them off the end of the pier. I get more than I prefer in the "child killing" depictions in AMC's The Walking Dead.
The art wasn't great, but it was extremely far from being bad. The story didn't really depict the need for more dramatic panels, and did okay with what action there was. I did like the roller skate being the only thing we see from Harley's retribution for missing the game. I also liked the "Pleasure Party" panels art wise also, as Roux could have went other places in the "toy" department. It was again very much like how things were with 60's Batman television.
Overall, it was a good issue. It has set-up the next issue nicely, with my being a bit intrigued by the retro-cyborg, Syborg. Really like how even Harley's bad girl moments come across as more funny and lighter toned, as people are right, DCU is a dark place, which I like, but comic books like this make for a great break from it. Although it is nice to see her on her own and it is still early, there needs to be more characters either making appearances like they did with Ivy so far.

Stay Nerdy!

BATMAN #29 (REVIEW)

Batman #29

Writer: Scott Snyder

Artist: Greg Capullo
          Danny Miki

Cover: Greg Capullo





The Rundown:
The story returns back to the Zero Year story arc, after a single issue preview of Batman: Eternal. Things begin with a flashback sequence, with Thomas and Martha Wayne picking up a young Bruce from the GCPD headquarters, after being picked up after sneaking off to see the Zorro film. Thomas teases his son a little bit after Bruce was asked his thoughts on the movie (a favorite of Thomas') and said that is was "dumb". Thomas says that they must see the movie again, and it must be now, ditching the fundraiser they were pulled away from.
Back to the "present", where we see Batman breaking free of his burial beneath a ton of human skeletons. He immediately contacts Jim Gordon, who is currently assisting in evacuating the city because of the Super storm that has hit. Batman tells Jim of Nygma's plans and that Jim needs to take Nygma down at Wayne Tower where he is located, but to also stop the city from turning the power back on as it will give Nygma what he needs to control Gotham. Commissioner Loeb and others are above the city in a blimp looking to take down Nygma and Batman, who he still believes are working together, when something catches the attention of everyone outside. We see a variety of panel showing people looking up in the sky as the Bat Blimp emerges from the clouds. Batman is searching for Nygma's weather balloon where there is a way to shut down his plans. Jim tries to convince Officer Corrigan to not turn the power to the city back on, but despite Gordon's pleas, Corrigan informs him that not only is the power going to be turned back on, Loeb is transferring him back to Chicago. Back on the Bat Blimp, Batman is trying to push the blimp higher and higher into the storm despite things malfunctioning and exploding. He sees the weather balloon, and is forced to make a suicidal leap and barely grapple onto the balloon. Upon his arrival he is greeted by Scar, who plans to show him how unwelcome Batman is.

At Wayne Tower, Jim confronts Nygma, who is sitting at a desk and a string wrapped around his finger. It is quickly revealed the string is attached to a bunch of pulleys all of which are holding a five ton boulder above Jim's head. The trap is unleashed, although narrowly misses Gordon, it crashes through the floor causing Jim to fall behind it. On the weather balloon, Batman and Scar are battling it out as Batman attempts to convince Scar to let him stop Nygma and his plans to kill thousands of people. It goes unwarranted as it was Nygma who helped Scar after he was fired from Wayne Enterprises, both financially and convincing him he was doing things for the greater good. Scar knocks the jammer Batman was going to use from his hands, and stops him from recovering it as it plummets off the edge. Batman kicks into gear and proceeds to break Scars bones in a variety of places, leaving him a mangled heap on the floor. Scar proclaims is change in theories after his sons life was taken so easily during a routine mission in the military, as Batman attempts a new method in shutting down Nygma's device. Scar is also snapping his bones back into place as he is talking and is able to sneak up on Batman who is focused on the device. Scar gets a few shots in before what Batman was doing explodes, engulfing Scars body with shrapnel. Batman pleads for him to remove them before his bone healing ability works against him and kills him with the shrapnel still lodged in his body. Scar refuses, asking only that Batman carry on his story, before perishing in the manner Batman said he would.

Back in the city, Corrigan and others attempt to turn the power to the city back on, but the only thing to light up was a question mark on the grid map before them. Out on the streets, Nygma is standing amongst the people leaving the city, holding the device/briefcase. He then pushes a button on his briefcase initiating and achieving control of Gotham as well as his others plans. Which at the moment consist of blowing up the retaining walls, beginning to flood the city, as well as taking control of the blimp Loeb is in, causing it to and other blimps to crash and explode. Enraged, Batman begins to pummel the device before him as we get a mix of this, the chaos amongst the city including the weather balloon beginning to fall from the sky. As well as, some flash backs to the Wayne family exiting the movie that they had set off to see earlier, including the moments when Thomas and Martha's lives were taken in front of Bruce, leaving him helpless screaming out for help.


The Review:
Another amazing issue by all talent involved in this one, as well as the Zero Year story arc which has delivered with every issue so far. Scott Snyder once again show why he was chosen to take on the writing for Batman for the relaunch and going forward. He was able to take a much over played event in Batman's history and made it feel fresh and unique, yet staying true to form with events surrounding Thomas & Martha Wayne's death. It has me intrigued as to how he has chosen to write out the rest of Bruce's traumatic moment, which was also slightly intrigued by a panel that just reminded me of The Joker. I had to go check my stash to see how long "Zero Year" has been taking place. and that is is about the same length as "Forever Evil". The difference between the two, is "Zero Year" hasn't felt that long, and leaves us wanting more of Snyder's vision of a modern aged Batman. Although there is another chapter of "Zero Year" to come, I couldn't think of what this is all building up to. Then I remembered it wasn't long ago a certain someone took a plunge in a specific vat at a known location. Just what I think, but then again I have a preference for the clowns in comics. Also, with the upcoming "Batman: Eternal" being a weekly title and dealing with the "now", it is possible "Zero Year" could be a very long ways from being done. And as long as Snyder can keep this up and have itching for the next issue, we're okay with that.
Capullo along with Miki, delivered again on the art side of things. Almost every panel was top notch, with the detail being good, even down to the water bouncing off the streets. Keeping in line with Snyder, they took a slightly overused panel, a Batman silhouette in front of a bolt of lightning, and gave it a fresh interesting look. The flashback panels were nicely done having a soft tone to them, however the panels involving Thomas and Martha's death, were intense yet subtle. Again giving it an original feel to them. Of course Capullo and Miki delivered in translating Snyder's words, telling us this great installment on the visual end of things.
Overall? Quite obvious. Great story that is a part of a great story arc, that again is just as long as "Forever Evil" yet hasn't felt that it needs to finally end. Other than the villain I mentioned above, curious to see if any other members of Batman's rogues gallery will appear within this origin based arc. That includes both new and old characters. Feel free to weigh-in with your opinions in the box below, either here or the posting that you found this. Until then...

Stay Nerdy!

FOREVER EVIL: ARKHAM WAR #6 (REVIEW)

Forever Evil #6

Writer: Peter J. Tomasi

Artist: Jaime Mendoza
          Scott Eaton

Cover: Jason Fabok





The Rundown:
Bane has returned to Blackgate after his previous battle while dawning the mantle of Batman, and after being bloodied and wounded, he allows himself a moment to heal. The Talon known as William Cobb is seeing to the other Talons who are also recovering from their last battle as well (see Forever Evil: Arkham War #5). Suddenly, Blackgate Penitentiary is invaded by a group of juiced up and jacked up, Arkhamites who begin to attack Bane's men and Talons. The Scarecrow is leading the way with the likes of Poison Ivy, Man-Bat, Black Mask, Mad Hatter, Mr. Freeze, Killer Croc, and others. Cobb is trying to thwart them but is engulfed into Clayface as we learn that they have enhanced their size and strength with Bane's favorite drug, Venom. Bane makes his entrance into the battle, striking from above smashing his fist into Clayface's "skull", freeing Cobb. Scarecrow informs Bane that he was able to synthsize Venom from a sample of Bane's own blood, and that they were here for a basic "snatch and grab" as Man-Bat swoops in and lifts Bane away. The Arkhamites are "ordered" by Scarecrow to kill them all as they begin to attack some more.

Bane does not struggle as Man-Bat carries him to his destination, wanting to finally have the final battle for Gotham City. Man-Bat poetically (Bane's words) delivers Bane to the front door of Arkham Asylum as the Scarecrow and his comrades arrive via helicopters. Bane opts to attack the m head on all at once, and holds his own pretty well until a blow right on the chin from Killer Croc puts an end to that. It even caused Bane's mask to lift up away from his mouth. Bane, ever the warrior, doesn't quit and continues to keep fighting. Bane begins to take them each down as he knew would happen once the Venom in their systems began to wear off and take their tolls on their bodies from the withdrawal. Something Bane knows all to well, but reminds them that he had the power and strength to push through and over-come the pain.

As Bane finishes up with the Arkhamites, The Penguin aka Oswald Cobblepot, and his goons arrive bearing a gift. A supply cache for Bane to take care of his men/soldiers with. Cobblepot also offers his help and experience  in exchange for the villains that Bane has recently beaten down. He agrees to the deal with The Penguin, with one exception, that a certain Arkhamite remain with him. Oswald gladly agrees. The story closes out with Bane discussing how his plans have changed now that he has the Talon's at his disposal, but regardless, it is finally his. Gotham City belongs to Bane.


The Review:
As a Bat-Fan this sub-story from the main events of Forever Evil has been quite nice. Add that come issue number thirty, "Batman: The Dark Knight" comes to an end, and was a title that was more focused on Batman's rogues gallery. So, these jam packed issues have been quite nice in those regards. Usually when something is "loaded" like this, the writing seems to take a break or the easy routes with the stories. Not the case with this one, continuing on from great work within "Batman And Robin", Tomasi delivered with his writing. I am big Joker fan, but even I couldn't think of a better person to be the "Villain-Batman", than Bane. He's one of, if not the most "militant" of Batman's enemies, which is how Bats tends to approach things and his family being his "soldiers". Even having Bane acknowledge in the beginning of this issue that he and Batman are the same in that they are "only human". Usually I prefer them spread out like he did in the early issues of "Batman And Robin", but I enjoyed having different villains using Venom. I also really liked how that even by using Venom they were still unable to defeat Bane, as the drug may be his person PE, it isn't what "makes" him. Similar to baseball of today, if you don't have the skills to hit a curve ball, then steroids which make you stronger and faster, do not give one the ability to hit a curve ball. Did I just make a sports reference? Time to move onto the art I think.

Not sure who drew what, or if one was the pencils and ink, while the other was the colorist. I do know, that they delivered an artistically fantastic issue, that wasn't over the top even though the option was there to do so. There wasn't much slack showing in the "less important" panels, keeping it with the flow of the rest, and made very good use of the double-page and single full-page panels. The two-page spread of "Venomized" Arkhamites was poster worthy. Jason Fabok did the cover work, which was okay, but not "great" to where I would have a different artist do it instead of the people who did the work within it. If that is all I am complaining about then it is another notch in the win department.

Overall, it was a good addition to the mini-series. It did seem almost like more of an ending issue more than a build up to the final installment though. Will have to see if this is a good thing or a disappointment come next issue, as perhaps there is an ending not needing of any sort of build up. Likely not the case, and the treat in all of this was simply having Batman's rogues gallery as the focus as a group instead of their individual battles with the goddamn Batman. Which isn't too bad, as it doesn't happen on such a large scale that often. And it also offered a slight break from the main events of "Forever Evil". It all ends come next issue. Until then...

Stay Nerdy!

FOREVER EVIL #6 (REVIEW)

Forever Evil #6

Writer: Geoff Johns

Artist: Richard Friend
          David Finch

Cover: David Finch





The Rundown:
Lex Luthor, Batman, Catwoman, Bizarro, Deathstroke, Black Adam, Captain Cold, and Black Manta are tracking down their target. Lex can't help but push Batman's buttons based on how easy he finds it. Ultraman and the rest of the remaining members of the Crime Syndicate are both mourning and looking at the giant tear in the sky from "him", while the ring of the fallen member, Power Ring, has found a new bearer. As long as "he" doesn't attempt to attack again, Deathstorm says he should be able to mend it. The Outsider aka tells Owlman that he should return immedietly to see what Grid has done to the captive Nightwing. Batman and the others arrive at their destination and are able to sneak in undetected. Luthor sends the others after the two Syndicate members within the stronghold, while he, Catwoman and Bizarro follow Batman, who has gone off in his own direction. Upon arriving at his destination, Batman and the others come upon Nightwing aka Richard Grayson entrapped in a device known as The Murder Machine. As the alarm goes off, Grid informs Outsider they've been infiltrated and summons the other members to return. Owlman orders "his" Alfred to protect Grayson, to which he disobeys his master and heads for "the prisoner", looking to end him before he is able to escape, and kill Owlman. Whilst approaching "the prisoner" he is stabbed in the back by Black Manta as he arrives with Captain Cold. Manta stabs The Outsider a few more times, before leaving him in a bloody heap on the ground.

Lex and the others are now trapt in the room containing Nightwing, which was designed to hold Doomsday, and what is now revealed to also contain a bomb hooked up to Richards heart. A five minute countdown begins on the bomb. Sinestro, Deathstroke and Black Adam are first to great the arriving Crime Syndicate as they make their smashing entrance. Ultraman immediately goes after Sinestro who fires of a shot from his ring as Black Adam swoops the other world Man Of Steel outside looking to return the favor from their previous encounter. Owlman quickly separates himself from the action going off on his own. Captain Cold and Black Manta remove "the prisoner's" hood, revealing a bearded man with tape over his mouth. As they remove the tape, Atomica and Johnny Quick make their way into the room discovering Outsider's body. Nightwing tries to convince Batman to save himself and the others, to which Batman quickly refuses before getting shot in the back by Lex Luthor. Catwoman takes offense before Bizarro holds her off as Lex puts his hand over Grayson's mouth and nose saying "I'm sorry, Mr Grayson".

Atomica is micro-sized and searching for a way to enter Manta's suit to enter his bloodstream to no avail. Johnny Quick grabs hold of Captain Cold while telling him about killing the Captain Cold from his world, and is corrected when he refers to Colds gun as a "freeze gun" and not the "cold gun" that it is. Cold also shows him how it is voice activated, "Jingle Bells, Batman Smells", flash freezing Quick's leg before shattering and severing the limb with a kick. Lex is still smothering Grayson as Batman and Catwoman fight through Bizarro. Batman is able to him out with a ring loaded punch, but is too late to stop Lex as the heart monitor sounds off with 0:03 remaining on the clock. With a grin, "the prisoner" tells Atomica how Johnny will never run again, which causes her be fearful that he isn't gagged anymore, saying they need Ultraman. Whom is outside battling it out with Black Adam in a lightning storm, as "the prisoner" screams "MAZAHS!!!" unleashing a "dark lightning bolt" from the sky above down to his body. The prisoner is free, and snaps Quick's neck as he was crawling to Atomica, and absorbs his powers. In the last full page panel "the prisoner" is revealed to be Alexander Luthor who proclaims, that he is going to kill them all before becoming the greatest hero this world has ever seen.



The Review:
Wow. When I heard rumors as to what would appear within this issue of "Forever Evil", I was thinking that I would have to really try hard to find some positives to write about. I thought wrong. This issue was really well done on all ends in the creative department. Although it may have been a long story arc, which we should've known it would be the moment Geoff Johns name was mentioned in all this, it all seems to be ending nicely. Even the rumored "Death Of Nightwing" which was the rumor, was handled nicely. How so? Yes, he is technically dead right now, but even Lex lets us know that it isn't too late to save him. Heck, how many times have we seen Batman's heart stop? But even in that, it is still left open ended until next issue. Will they leave him dead as is? Will he be brought back only to be killed off? Or will he left unscathed in the "I died and came back" department. Hopefully. Now, I am not sure if this was intended, but they gave me villains that I "hate" more than the bad guys of this world, which helps me kind of enjoy this "Injustice League" team as well as watching members of the Crime Syndicate getting taken out. Namely Johnny Quick, who I just did not like when he appeared when this all started, and was I ever pleased with how they took him out. The added touch of Captain Cold referencing a "mutual respect" with The Flash made that scene extra good. I am liking the intro of Alexander Luthor, this is my comic book introduction to the character, but his build up and grand appearance has me intrigued.

The art was done very well and put Geoff's words into perfect "frozen" action, living up to its end in telling the story. That was also a slight pun, because I really enjoyed the work done on the dismembering of Johnny Quick, which the art also added to my not liking the character. He even looks like he would be smart mouthed idiot. I do wonder if Friend and Finch find these issues to be a curse or a blessing. A curse in the sense that there aren't any "faceless background people" to either speed through or to help make the main characters standout more. The blessing in that usually when you draw for a title, you are limited to the characters that fall within that titles usual range, with occasional guess appearances from those outside of it. In this situation it is an all-star line-up of the top heroes and villains within the new DC Universe. Safe to assume they put issues like this in the portfolio for future "title shots".

Overall "Forever Evil #6" was a top notch issue both alone and as part of the current story arc with the same name. The blood was bit much, but needed to remind us that the "good guys" are still villains after all. Geoff Johns seems to be able to work with anyone, or has been lucky to have such talented artists at his side, because although I agree with many that this has been a long cross-over, or at least seems to have been it is winter after all. Even greatness can get tiresome, however, issues like this help rekindle the fire as things come to an end. Which I am looking forward to for a whole different reason now.

Stay Nerdy!

BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT #28 (REVIEW)

Batman: The Dark Knight #28

Writer: Greg Hurwitz

Artist: Ethan Van Sciver

Cover: Ethan Van Sciver






The Rundown:
Jim Gordon and the G.C.P.D. are investigating a homicide where once again victims were drained of their blood. Batman gets samples from Gordon and immediately heads after Dr. Kirk Langstrom, who informs him that the tests Batman will run will show he wasn't responsible, believing him Batman leaves. We are introduced to Abraham Langstrom, top man at Patriarch Pharmaceuticals and Kirk Langstrom's father. He steel nerved, immoral business man who has bought up every drop of the Man-Bat serum across the globe, and has become addicted to the effects after having become Man-Bat himself.
At the Batcave, Alfred points out how Man-Bat is Batman's opposite in both name and characteristics, when the tests complete, revealing to them the identity of the new Man-Bat, Abraham Langstrom as we learned previously. We learn from Abe's point of view how it feels to be Man-Bat as he feeds on another victim, and how primal instincts take over, which is to hunt and feed. Bruce goes to Lucius Fox for assistance in developing an antidote, who explains the family history between the Wayne's and Langstrom's. Abraham was Thomas Wayne's rival in all aspects from business to philantropy, but despite that, Abe seemed to have an admiration for Bruce as a child.
Kirk confronts his father as he returns from his hunt, who in turn begins to belittle Kirk as he points out how he has made a superior serum, and how he's always been an embarrassment to him, wishing he was more like Bruce Wayne. He even reveals to Kirk that he isn't above killing his own son if he gets in his way, before going to rest (while hanging upside down from a bar). Alfred reaffirms Abe's words while detailing more about the families history, explaining also that despite all of Bruce and Abe's similarities, it is Bruce's moral compass that sets him apart. Bruce heads out to face Man-Bat, antidote in hand. Upon confronting him whilst in the air, he points out how Abe's version is far superior in size, strength, as well as a thicker skin/hide than previous Man-Bats/She-Bats, which causes him to break the needle, then begin to fall from the sky to the streets below as the story concludes.



The Review:
Another issue that I wasn't "looking forward" to reading upon seeing that it was another Man-Bat story. Having had at least two that I can think of already since the relaunch, which were well done mind you, it was just time to cover another character. However, I quickly had those feelings taken away after reading which could be (see how it ends) the best one of them yet. Hurwitz added not only to Man-Bat/Kirk Langstrom's history, but also added some of that depth to Batman/Bruce Wayne's also. And, despite them borderline saturating the character of Man-Bat (Kirks, She-Bat, Abe's, Talia's Army and the citizens in DC#700) he has delivered this story very nicely so far.
In some spots I wasn't too sure about the art, a continued issue from previous issues but overall this time it was done well. It told the story as it is meant to do, and the frames and panels with Abraham Langstrom's Man-Bat were top notch, and actually "looks" like the alpha Man-Bat, but in the good way, not an over-the-top cheesy way. I would like to see some "crisper" lines or a style similar to the work done on the Man-Bat parts, as again they were really good, but stood out more because the rest wasn't "as good". Just my opinion of course, it still did as it was meant to, and that's deliver the story that can't fit in word bubbles, and Ethan did that well.
Overall, this was a really good issue. The series at times has had a few "misses", but seems to be going out like a champ with good "silent" issues, and now a really good addition to the Man-Bat and Wayne Family histories the series almost feels like it shouldn't be coming to an end. For those unaware, this title along with Nightwing are coming to an end at issue #30, but do not fret, somewhat going away to make room for the upcoming weekly Batman: Eternal.

Stay Nerdy!

X-MEN #25 (TBT REVIEW)

X-Men #25 (October 1993)

Writer: Fabian Nicieza

Artist: Andy Kubert

Inker: Matt Ryan

Cover: Andy Kubert




Rundown:
Story begins with the President of the United States calling up and informing the Russian President of the U.N.'s vote to initiate the "Magneto Protocols" that are in place, and we see Nick Fury (Sr.) and the mutant Forge doing just that. Bringing many inactive satellites floating around Earths orbit back online, which then form an electromagnetic fire mesh covering the exterior of the planet. Magneto takes notice and exception to what they have done. The mesh creates a field that would leave him unable to use his powers on the surface and recruit new members to live in his haven, Avalon. Magneto then uses his powers to cut through a section of the mesh sending a massive pulse wave around the Earths surface  blacking out power everywhere. From NY where we see Thing and Mr. Fantastic, Japan where the mutant Sunfire is caught in the wave, to England where Nightcrawler and Captain Britain, all seeing the result of Magneto's powers. Back at the X-Mansion Beast and Banshee are getting power back up and running for at least the mansion. Professor X assemble his X-Men in the Danger Room to explain the situation and to brief them on the plan to take Magneto down. Cyclops lays out the plan for them all, but is against it, but realizes he and others are staying behind to "carry on" incase things go south. Wolverine, Gambit, Jean Grey, Quicksilver and Rogue are selected to carry out the mission, along with a Shi'ar Exoskeleton wearing Professor X (suit and his powers enable him to walk).
The team teleports upon Avalon (Magneto's haven for mutants) almost unnoticed, with the exception of Colossus who had defected after his sisters funeral (see Uncanny X-Men #304), but chooses not to pass on the information to the rest of Magneto's Acolytes. After quickly dispersing their initial roadblock in the form of Rusty and Skids, Quicksilver is speeds off to plant a device for Xavier in a specific spot. Xavier then uses the computer terminal to transport all of Magneto's Acolytes including Exodus to pods outside the space station to hang in its orbit. Magneto quickly responds and attacks immediately. He quickly throws Wolverine to the side, then holds his own against the others while Jean and Charles flood his brain with memories from his childhood and the events of WWII and how it affected him. It is when Quicksilver lands a shot on him knocking off his helmet, that Magneto feels betrayed and snaps, proceeding to attempt to kill his son. Wolverine recovers and tries to intervene when he is caught by Magneto and his powers. Magneto is extremely angered, has had enough and begins to rip the adamantium from Wolverines skeleton through the pores and old wounds of his skin. Xavier has had enough of Magneto and his ways, and while vowing that Logan would be the last victim uses his powers to "take away" Magneto's mind, leaving him in a comatose state. Colossus enters and tells the X-Men to get Wolverine and themselves to safety and he would stay and care for Magneto. Story ends with them rushing off (Logan in a protective cocoon courtesy of Jean's abilities) while Colossus carries the now fallen Magento looking out at the destruction around him.


Review:
As a kid this was the most amazing comic book I had ever read, and 20 years later it still ranks up there for me. it helped that there weren't really any "spoilers" available to me back then, other than reading Wizard magazine and friends who may have read or heard things, so it was also a complete "shock" to me back then. Now, I see that it was almost Marvel's answer for DC Comics "Death Of Superman" and "Breaking Of The Bat", taking one of their top characters and basically "breaking him". Of course the adamantium isn't gone for long, but it made for some good stories to see the Ol' Canucklehead in a more vulnerable state. I am also more appreciative of Fabians writing now, seeing how even the simple addition of Quicksilver to the mix made the story deeper in how his actions would trigger Magneto's (Pietro was usually in X-Factor), as well as Xavier and Jean putting his childhood memories come to the forefront and how Mag's actions were very similar to that of the Nazis, and how although he "thought" he may have been doing good, he was doing just as much damage as Hitler in the end.

As for the art, Andy Kubert (and his brother Adam) is still one of my all-time favorites, and this issue is one of his pieces that solidify that for me. Like I mentioned above as a kid I wasn't able to really appreciate the depth of the writing, but the art was done so well that I got the majority of it, and still does the job today. Done so well that it could be a silent issue and the visuals would give you exactly what you would need to know what is happening.
The wrap-around cover was attention grabbing, and bot just for the hologram card glued on the front. But, as a kid, that little card meant that I "had" to have this issue. And I find it hard to see people complaining about the $3.99 or $4.99 we pay today for "special" comic books, when this was $4.40 off the rack.


Check in next week for another entry into "Throwback Thursdays" where we'll take another look back at a comic book from yesteryear!

Stay Nerdy!