Tag: Comic

Review: Scarlet Witch #1 (2023)

Writer: Steve Orlando
Artist: Sara Pichelli
Inking Assistant: Elisabetta D’Amico
Colorist: Matthew Wilson
Letterer: VC’s Cory Petit
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Released: January 4, 2023

Ahhhh! Yes! Scarlet Witch has always been one of my favorite comic series, and I’ve been missing it in recent years. So you can imagine my joy at the release of Scarlet Witch #1. Written by Steve Orlando, this issue has a ton of artists backing it up: Sara Pichelli, Elisabetta D’Amico, Matthew Wilson, and VC’s Cory Petit. I want to thank each and every one of them for bringing my favorite character back to her own solo series.

This issue starts with a moment of intrigue – what is Wanda up to, and where will it lead? From there, we’re quickly thrown into the action, almost literally. The pace keeps up from there, with a few surprising cameos along for the ride.

There are two core plots of Scarlet Witch #1. The first is the overarching project Wanda is working on; the second is related to this but still distinct. The latter plot reminded me a lot of the Purple Man, but with a few unique twists. It was almost nostalgic, and I love how it was handled (including how Wanda handled it).

I’ve been looking forward to this series for weeks, and Scarlet Witch #1 proves it was worth the wait! Now to kill some time before the next issue drops…

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Review: Super Trash Cash

Author/Artist: Edgar Camacho
Publisher: Top Shelf Productions
Released: December 6, 2022
Received: NetGalley

Super Trash Cash is the perfect graphic novel for anybody who loves video game nostalgia. This series has many other core elements, such as friendship, familial bonds, and why we hold so tightly to the things we cherish as children.

I didn’t know what to expect going into this graphic novel. Mostly, the artwork caught my attention, but the plot quickly became the show’s star. Interestingly, this story ends up hitting hard emotionally. I feel like this is the tone many coming-of-age or reflective stories try to nail but miss. However, Super Trash Cash did it perfectly, with the side of a hilarious title to boot.

Overall, I enjoyed this relatively quick and emotional read, and I highly recommend it to anyone else.

Thanks to Top Shelf Productions and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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Review: Captain Marvel #45

Writer: Kelly Thompson
Artist: Sergio Davila
Inker: Sean Parsons
Colorists: Arif Prianto and Yen Nitro
Letterer: VC’s Clayton Cowles
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Released: January 4, 2023

Onward with the Revenge of the Brood in Captain Marvel #45. Though, is anyone else wondering what precisely they’re getting revenge on? After all, they’re supposedly in a moment of peace. Granted, we all knew that wasn’t going to last.

I mentioned a bit of dissonance in the last issue due to a sudden jump. That (intentionally) continues here, though it isn’t long before the characters catch up. I’ll admit that it was satisfying to see. More importantly, Carol has a very human reaction to what happened, and I think I love her even more for it. I certainly love Kelly Thompson more for including this moment.

Captain Marvel #45 is full of action. Again, Brood. It’s going to happen. Despite all of this action, it feels like we’re being set up for something even bigger. That probably means there will be a lot more action (and danger) on the horizon.

The artistic team did an excellent job of bringing the events of this issue to life. Sergio Davila (pencils), Sean Parsons (ink), Arif Prianto (colors), Yen Nitro (colors), and VC’s Clayton Cowles (letters) were all involved in this project, and I love it. For me, the highlight would have to be either all the fighting or the slightly manic expressions of some of our favorite characters. Not that I blame them, given the situation.

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Review: Ghost-Spider #5 (Marvel)

Seeing Double in Ghost-Spider #5

Multiple universes can result in many strange dilemmas, such as having to face off against two copies of the same antagonist. That’s probably not something Gwen Stacy, Ghost-Spider, was expecting to face. And yet that is what she comes up against in Ghost-Spider #5.

Gwen Stacy has made a new life for herself, courtesy of having access to two different earths. But sometimes, that means doubling up the trouble. You’d think that’s a fact that most Spider characters would be familiar with at this point. But everybody’s got to learn the hard way from time to time, right?

It has been refreshing to see Gwen regain control over her life. That being said, this plot has been building for a while now, so it’s pretty satisfying to see it come to a head here.

Writing

Ghost-Spider #5 was an interesting and exciting issue. One that balanced some incredible highs with a few truly alarming moments. It’s exactly the balance we’ve been hoping to see from Gwen’s story. And all of the stakes have been truly raised, thanks to this plot arc hitting critical mass.

Seanan McGuire nailed the creepy undertones required for this plot in Ghost-Spider #5. Everything about Miles Warren is disturbing – his behavior and tones feel so alarming and familiar to something many people have experienced. And that only increases all of those creepy feelings.

The last several issues have been building up this plot, with the Jackal getting increasingly obsessed with Gwen. This issue went a lot in letting that tension explode outward while showing just how unstable this character can be.

Despite all of those seriously creepy and disturbing tones, McGuire did manage to weave in a couple of feel-good moments. That balance has felt more vital than ever, with all the personal threats to Gwen and her life.

Art

There’s a whole lot of groundwork that Ghost-Spider #5 had to cover. And yet the artistic team could keep up with it, even when that meant following the antagonists and all of their many contacts.

What was impressive about this issue was the level of expression and emotion shown by the characters. If not for some creative artistic licensing, several scenes could have been much more graphic than they were. It felt like the right call in this case.

Several artists were working on this issue to make it what it was. Takeshi Miyazawa and Ig Guara were the lead artists for this issue. At the same time, Rosi Kampe did the inking alongside Guara. Then there was coloring provided by Ian Herring (I love his sense of colors). And finally, the lettering was done by VC’s Clayton Cowles.

Conclusion

Ghost-Spider #5 was another fascinating installment in Gwen’s adventure. There’s something so satisfying about seeing the consequences of Gwen’s time spent on two different earths. Not to mention that this is a plot that has been building for quite some time.

I’m personally looking forward to seeing how far this plot gets pushed. Also, I desperately want to see how the Bodega Bandit is doing. Anybody else?

This review was originally written for Word of the Nerd, but has been ported over to Quirky Cat’s Fat Stacks now that the site has shut down.

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Review: Oneira – Chapter 1 – Crimson Moon

Series: Oneira #1
Author: Cab
Artist: Di Meo Federica
Publisher: Europe Comics
Released: July 27, 2022
Received: NetGalley

Do you think you could survive a world of terror and death? Personally, I’m voting on no. The world of Oneira is dark and full of nightmares – sometimes more literally than one would like.

One of the best things about grabbing comics from NetGalley is that I can go into them without expectations. That lets them surprise me! However, I’ll admit that I wasn’t blown away by Oneira, much to my disappointment. The artwork made me want to love it, you know?

The series has potential, especially with the darker tones and heavier fight scenes. What it is lacking (at the moment) is context. There wasn’t much explanation for the world or even the fight that occurred. So while it was a very good-looking fight, it ultimately had no stakes for the readers. I hope future chapters will work to change that because I can see the potential here.

Thanks to Europe Comics and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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Review: Wild: Or So I Was Born To Be

Author/Artist: Cristian Castelo
Publisher: Oni Press
Released: November 22, 2022
Received: NetGalley

If you promise me a graphic novel that is a merger between roller derby and coming-of-age, you better believe I will read it! And that is exactly what Wild: Or So I Was Born To Be promises readers.

Wild Rodriguez and her friends always have cherished roller derby, and this year marks a highlight in their obsession – they’re finally trying out for the Rocket Rollers. Will they have what it takes to enter the roller derby world?

Anyone who understands roller derby knows exactly what sacrifices will need to be made, including accepting pain and punishment. Not to mention the risk of joining a feud…or two.

There’s something about the combination of roller derby and coming-of-age that feels so…right. Perhaps it’s because both roller derby and life can beat the shit out of you. Or perhaps it’s just me wanting to like this graphic novel! Either way.

Overall, I would have to say that Wild is a pretty interesting graphic novel. I think I liked the artwork more than the plot itself, but that isn’t a bad thing. To be honest, the monochromatic art style probably would have stolen the show, regardless.

There’s a lot of potential peaking through the pages, though I think the plot could have used a bit of tightening up. Even though I didn’t love every moment of this read, something about it made me wish it was a series. I think that’s the potential (and the artwork) speaking.

Thanks to Oni Press and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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Review: Captain Marvel #44

Writer: Kelly Thompson
Artist: Sergio Davila
Inker: Sean Parsons
Colorist: Arif Prianto
Letterer: VC’s Clayton Cowles
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Released: November 16, 2022

The Revenge of the Brood (part two) continues in Captain Marvel #44. This arc is killing it, if I may say so. I know, I know – I’m biased. But I’m happy to see so many of my favorite characters together (Spider-Woman, Hazmat, Psylocke, Polaris, Gambit, must I go on?).

This was a fun issue. Okay, it also got a bit dark, but since this is the Brood we’re talking about, that’s probably no real surprise to anyone. It was great seeing the team find ways to work together, utilizing strengths and minding each other’s weaknesses (primarily the inability to breathe in space – a big point to remember, right?).

There was one moment when I had to go back and reread everything that happened because the transition was so sudden. I shouldn’t have done that, though, as if I had just kept reading, it all would have been explained.

Long story short, I love the latest Captain Marvel run and can’t wait to see where it goes. The good news about being a bit behind is I can binge it all!

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Review: Ghost-Spider #4 (Marvel)

Gwen’s Hidden Enemy in Ghost-Spider #4

The tale continues in Ghost-Spider #4. Gwen Stacy, aka Ghost-Spider, aka Spider-Gwen, has finally regained balance in her life. She’s now successfully juggling her social life, hero life, school, and band. And she’s doing so flawlessly.

But that makes us wonder when the other shoe is going to drop. After all, it’s not common for any version of Spider-Hero of Gwen Stacy to have a long run of luck. Combined with the antagonist subplot building in the background, that fact has left fans curious – and concerned.

Still, it’s refreshing to see a version of Gwen that is happy and content. The girl could use a break or two in her life, and it seems like she’s finally gotten that. Once again, we’re reminded that a living and breathing person is underneath that mask.

Writing

Seanan McGuire’s Ghost-Spider has been a study of Gwen Stacy’s character. She’s still facing trials and dangers, but they’re different than she’s used to. It’s excellent seeing her thrive in this new environment. And yet the tension is still being built, courtesy of the plots building behind Gwen’s back.

The balance is surprising but compelling. So it probably shouldn’t be a surprise that Ghost-Spider #4 takes this all a step further, increasing the obsession of the returned antagonist. Careful planning is evident in this issue, which makes me concerned about what will be in store for Gwen.

The last issue showed us a shocking event that hurt Gwen more than she expected. And frankly, it hurt us, readers, more than expected. It was nice to get a bit of a follow-up, at least in the emotional sense. And it’s also a strong reminder that Gwen is a person first and a hero second. And that’s she’s a being of extreme compassion.

This issue doesn’t end on a cliffhanger – but it will leave fans anxious and curious to see what the next issue has in store. It’s the right balance for a conclusion. It’s an attention-grabber, but it isn’t meant for the readers.

Art

The artwork in Ghost-Spider #4 is fun and colorful, just like the rest of the series. The creative team behind this series has been having fun, showing us all the extremes in Gwen’s life. From her superhero life to her more casual moments, it’s all woven into this issue.

Takeshi Miyazawa (pencils), Rosi Kampe (inks), Ian Herring (colors), and VC’s Clayton Cowles (letters) all worked together to bring us this issue, and they did an excellent job. There are many hidden details in the background, which enhanced both the plot and subplot of the series so far.

The portrayal of Gwen’s abilities and spider-sense was perhaps the issue’s highlight. Especially given how odd they’ve been acting as of late. But then there are also the expressions of Gwen and all of her friends – her relaxed face is such a pleasant change from what we’ve become so used to seeing.

Conclusion

Ghost-Spider #4 was another fun issue in this series. The tension has been building for four issues now, leaving fans wondering when it will burst. But we’ll appreciate Gwen’s small (ish) break in the meantime.

The clever writing and brilliant artwork are combined nicely, giving fans a read that’s a change of pace from all of the other hero comics available. And that makes it memorable, even when there’s no epic battle going on.

This review was originally written for Word of the Nerd, but has been ported over to Quirky Cat’s Fat Stacks now that the site has shut down.

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Review: Dark Spaces: Wildfire #1

Series: Dark Spaces: Wildfire
Author: Scott Snyder
Artist: Hayden Sherman
Colorist: Ronda Pattison
Letterer: Andworld Design
Publisher: IDW
Released: July 20, 2022
Received: NetGalley

Dark Spaces: Wildfire #1 is the first issue in a new series by Scott Snyder and Hayden Sherman, so I had to give it a try! Set during the Arroyo Fire, this series covers a group of inmate firefighters – and the dangers (plus temptations) they will face alongside the smoke and ash.

Writing

Dark Spaces: Wildfire #1 is a solid start to the series. Right away, readers are pulled into the story. Granted, it would be challenging for a fire not to catch our attention. Combine that with our leading lady’s regrets, and it becomes impossible to look away from.

I’m thrilled to see Scott Snyder experimenting with different stories. Obviously, Dark Spaces: Wildfire #1 is only one of several projects he’s currently working on, but it was enough to get me curious.

Much of this first issue is spent setting the scene. We have the in-media res intro, which then morphs into a brief overview of the job (and the risks), followed by some time spent getting to know the main characters. It’s very well-balanced, setting the series off on the right foot.

From here on out, it’ll be much easier to care about the characters and the situation they are likely about to get themselves into.

Artwork

Dark Spaces: Wildfire #1 has some brilliant artwork to complement such an intense story. Actually, I’m fairly certain that the story wouldn’t be quite as intense without the help of the artists Hayden Sherman (pencils), Ronda Pattison (colors), and Andworld Design (letters).

The character designs are brilliant – they have that rougher quality but feel so very real. Combine that with the bold and bright colors, and you have the recipe for a story that is visually appealing – and memorable.

I’m always fond of seeing what letters will do with a series such as this, and Andworld Design did not disappoint. I love the subtlety and care shown in the placement and styles. It’s the little things that really make the lettering shine here.

Conclusion

All things said and done; I think Dark Spaces: Wildfire #1 is a really solid start to this series. It’s already making me a bit sad that there will only be four more issues following this one. I could have gotten used to a whole lot more of this!

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Review: Scarlet Witch #2

Series: Scarlet Witch 2023
Writer: Steve Orlando, Stephanie Renee Williams
Artist: Sara Pichelli, Christopher Allen
Inker: Elisabeth D’Amico
Colorist: Matt Wilson, Dee Cu
Letterer: Cory Petit
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Released: February 1, 2023

Have you ever wanted to see the Scarlet Witch duke it out in the dreamscape? Well, I have good news for you – you need to read Scarlet Witch #2! Thus far, this series has turned out to be everything I could have hoped or dreamed of (pun intended. Sorry, not sorry).

Comic Summary:

Scarlet Witch recently created a very special door. It enables those who need her help to magically walk through, no questions asked. This is how Viv Vision ended up walking into Wanda’s new store, desperate for sleep, closure, and help.

Viv has recently been plagued by the deaths of her mother and sibling – something she thought she had coped with and found balance for. This sudden appearance of these concerns, combined with her mental (and physical) decline, leaves us to assume that somebody is interfering with her mind.

At the end of Scarlet Witch, #2 is a bonus arc featuring a little adventure for Scarlet Witch and Storm. They’re arguably a duo we need to see more of!

My Review:

Scarlet Witch #2 is an intense and oddly satisfying read. I say oddly satisfying because there’s something so ethereal yet impactful about battles in other realms, especially the dreamscape. Okay, seeing Wanda step up to take care of Viv was also pretty sweet.

This issue dredges up all sorts of past issues for our leading cast. If you don’t know the complicated history of Viv Vision and Wanda Maximoff, you may want to spend five minutes googling it before diving into this issue – it’ll help, I promise. That said, readers will get a quick summary to help them along.

There’s a lot to appreciate about this issue. The nuanced portrayal of grief, mourning, and pain is one of the most prominent. An epic battle comes in as a close second. And finally, there are several growing mysteries happening in the background. It’s enough to keep any reader invested!

On the visual side of things, we have some pretty amazing artwork. Visually, the battle should take the forefront of our attention – but it almost doesn’t. There’s something so human about the way our characters interact it feels nearly impossible to look away from.

The bonus story at the end is short but perfect, as any story containing two epic heroines should be. Taking a moment to showcase Storm was a nice touch.

Highlights:

  • Dreamscape Battle
  • Viv Vision Cameo
  • Bonus Content

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