Showing posts with label Gabriel Rodriguez. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gabriel Rodriguez. Show all posts

Thursday, November 30, 2017

Thursday Morning Superhero

Quite the roller coaster week for Marvel. You have the bizarre story about its new editor-in-chief, C.B. Cebulski, admitting to writing under a Japanese name for over a year. Cebulski, or Akira Yoshida as it were, wrote several story lines and made up stories of seeing Yoshida in the office to cover his tracks.  Follow that up with the new trailer for Infinity War complete with Thanos, the Infinity Gauntlet, and a gaggle of superheros. The week after Thanksgiving is historically light, but at least we are gifted a gem from Gabriel Rodriguez and another fun entry into the Star Wars Adventures line.

Pick of the Week:

Sword of Ages #1 - Having seen a lot of images teased by Gabriel Rodriguez on social media I was still absolutely surprised by this book. Avalon is a child who was brought to the red planet by way of the stars and raised by tigers. Her mother wishes the best for her, and allows her to train with a mysterious old man and his bird, Nikola. The story opens with her leaving her family with the strange old man to train at the White Monks' Citadel. Mixing elements of science fiction and fantasy, Rodriguez does a great job of introducing us to the world he has created. We meet some of the elder gods and other inhabitants on this planet, and I cannot wait to learn what role they all play. Rogriguez delivers absolutely stunning art per usual as this book is extremely easy on the eyes. The coloring by Lovern Kindzierski and letting from Robbie Robins combine to make this book the complete package. I had high expectations for this series, and am pleased to report that so far it has exceeded my expectations. We just need more sword in the next issue!

The Rest:
Star Wars Adventures #4 - While not my favorite issue in this series, it remains a comic that all children should be reading. The first short story is going to continue into the next issue and features a standard Star Wars style diplomacy gone wrong. What I enjoyed was how Luke soaked up the compliments about his odds defying shot that took out the Death Star. The other story was a cute story involving a bully and some tough farm kids/aliens. Definitely a fun series with one of the cutest letter sections I have ever read.




Rick and Morty #32 - I've been reading this series to fill the old Rick and Morty void until next season, but didn't particularly enjoy this one. Summer embarks on a relationship with a spaceship and a lot of female stereotypes in what felt like a bunch of cheap gags. Written by Pamela Ribon, who also wrote the screenplay for Moana and is co-writing Wreck it Ralph 2, the book lacked that keeps me connected to the television series. I am sure a lot of Rick and Morty fans will enjoy this one, but it wasn't my cup of tea.






POSTED BY MIKE N. aka Victor Domashev -- comic guy, proudly raising nerdy kids, and Nerds of a Feather contributor since 2012.

Thursday, July 27, 2017

Thursday Morning Superhero: SDCC Recap



Last week was a flurry of pop culture, crowds, long lines, and a minor scandal in San Diego as the nerds arrived four days of panels, swag and fun. While I didn't manage to accomplish everything on my SDCC checklist, I am happy to report that the good folks with Comic Con International hosted another successful convention for over 160,000 nerds. Breaking from tradition, I decided to base my recap on trends I noticed during the show.

Laika Steals the Show:
Some of the props brought to SDCC
by Laika Studios.
Laika Studios brought the Laika Experience to the Gas Lamp and took over a gallery on 5th Ave. The good folk from Laika filled the gallery with scenes, puppets, and props that were used in the filming of Coraline, Paranorman, The Box Trolls, and Kubo and the Two Strings. What I thought would be a simple stop in and check everything out, turned into a guided tour from employees from Laika Studios.  This additional touch made the whole experience more personal and provided incredible insight into the amazing world of the four films.  Seeing the hand-made creations up close, learning about the animation process, and hearing directly from people involved in the project gave me an even greater appreciation of the films that my whole family already thoroughly enjoy. Definitely some of the nicest people that I interacted with in San Diego and an event that I hope everyone in San Diego had the chance to experience. To top it off they brought the limited Nike shoes that were created in honor of each film and even gave a few pairs away.

Derf Backderf at the My Friend
Dahmer panel.
Hidden Gems:
My Friend Dahmer Panel
When I heard that they were turning the Eisner Award winning graphic novel from Derf Backderf into a feature film, I was excited and extremely skeptical. This panel, hosted in the Horton Grand Theater, completely erased any skepticism that I had. The panel opened with a trailer for the film, and I had chills. Ross Lynch, who is best known for his acting for Disney TV, absolutely shined in his role as Jeffrey Dahmer. Throughout the panel, it became clear that the director, Marc Meyers, wanted to remain very true to the first hand account of Dahmer in high school as told in Backderf's graphic novel. Not only did they film in the Dahmer house, but Backderf had such faith in Meyers and company that he didn't spend much time on set. This demonstrates that Backderf had faith in Meyers and crew and didn't feel the need to interrupt the creative process. Backderf stated that he stopped by, but through conversations with Meyers had no doubt that the adaptation would be true to the source material. It is expected to hit theaters in November and enjoy the trailer below!



A drawing of Cobra Commander
from when Gabriel Rodriguez
was a kid.
Gabriel Rodriguez Panel
I wish more people would have taken the time to hear Gabriel Rodriguez speak about his career in comics.  Coming from an architecture background and growing up in Chile, Rodriguez was able to find a home at IDW comics that started by his ability to draw likenesses for licensed comics. He really became a star at IDW with his work on Locke and Key, which then opened the door for his work on Little Nemo: Return to Slumberland and for his first solo project.  Rodriguez is writing and drawing Sword of Ages, which should find its way to shelves in October. From what I have heard from friends who know Rodriguez and from how he spoke on the panel and interacted with fans after, he seems like one of the nicest and most talented individuals in this industry.  I really look forward to his first creator owned project and can't wait to read Sword of Ages.

Mr. Robot Puzzle
The final clue to the phone
number.
One of the biggest surprises that I stumbled on at SDCC was the Mr. Robot off-site. While I don't currently watch the show, I am going to start watching soon as it really made me intrigued about what the show was all about. On the surface the off-site was a great treat for fans, providing $20 worth of credit in e-Coin, a currency used in the show.  After waiting in line for a bank card, fans were treated to lunch and a list of retailers in San Diego that you could spend your e-Coin balance. If you asked the host if the Red Wagon BBQ was hiring, you were presented a job application that spelled out a series of clues. If you successfully deciphered the codes, you were given a passphrase and a phone number. When you spoke the passphrase to the person who answered the phone, you were instructed to bring your application to a specific intersection at a specific time. Curious about what this would entail, I was waiting on the corner when a man dressed in a black leather jacked quietly asked if I was Mike. Upon confirming this fact I was led into a secret room, my phone was confiscated, and I was face to face in an interview with a man wearing a demon mask and caught up living a scene from the show.  It was one of the most surreal experiences I have had at SDCC and has me extremely curious about what Mr. Robot is and plan on tuning in.

More Immersive Experiences:
Blade Runner 2049
While I didn't get a chance to check this off-site experience out, one of my friends went through and commented at how truly immersive his experience was.  It started with a VR chase that ended in a crash.  Upon removing the VR headset, he emerged in a gigantic tent that felt like a set from the movie. Complete with the crashed vehicle he just experienced in the VR and actors spread throughout the set, fans who braved the long lines were able to fully immerse themselves in the world that Phillip K. Dick created.  I was bummed to miss out, but happy to hear about what a great experience it was.

Westworld
One of the most talked about off-sites at SDCC was Westworld. The lucky fans who were able to book appointments, were able to check-in and register to attend the Westworld theme park from the HBO show. Once they made it to the hotel, fans changed into complete western attire and entered a room that, similar to Blade Runner, put them in what felt like an actual set from the show.  After interacting with the characters in the room, fans got to keep their cowboy hats as a prize and left knowing they experienced an extremely selective event at SDCC.

Moving Forward:
Wristband counterfeiting
What should have been an exciting Saturday in Hall H featuring Stranger Things 2 and Marvel was marred by 300-400 fans not making into the Hall due to wristband counterfeiting. SDCC responded quickly and provided fair compensation, but we are almost guaranteed to see big changes in how admission into Hall H is handled in 2018. I may be in the minority, but I would like to see a lottery and a decrease in the number of fans camping out for days at a time. It always seemed like a huge safety concern from my perspective.

Badge improvement
Last year CCI introduced RFID enabled badges with pretty good success. Attendees had to scan badges to enter and exit the convention center and while it had the occasional snafu, appeared to limit the number of fake badges and the convention floor felt noticeably less crowded. I didn't hear of any issues this year and the crowd seemed used to the scanning in and out process and flowed well. I wouldn't be surprised to see this expanded on in terms of helping with Hall H, but time will tell.

This is just a snippet of the offerings that SDCC has each and every year. If you are interested in attending you should register for a Comic Con ID and hope you have some good karma when badges go on sale for 2018.

POSTED BY MIKE N. aka Victor Domashev -- comic guy, proudly raising nerdy kids, and Nerds of a Feather contributor since 2012.

Thursday, August 21, 2014

Thursday Morning Superhero

The Con season is over for me and I am getting back into a groove here before the upcoming semester begins.  I am happy to report that Thursday Morning Superhero will be returning to its usual format and am looking forward to catching up on some titles as my schedule has slowed down significantly.  The highlight this week is the return of Gabe Rodriguez to comics.  It felt so good to pour over the beautiful pages he created for the fun new series Little Nemo Returns to Slumberland.


Pick of the Week:
Daredevil #7 - I have to admit that I have enjoyed Daredevil's attempt to find out why his mom left him so long ago.  I will also admit that I never thought I would read a mainstream comic that shed some light on an issue like postpartum issues that many women face.  My wife is a labor doula and I have learned more about childbirth than I ever thought possible.  1 in 7 new mothers have some sort of depression during their pregnancy and I love that Ellie Pyle, the editor, provided a list of great resources in the back of the issue and hopefully they will serve the mommas and papas that read this great book.  Readers of this blog can find more information here.

The Rest:
Little Nemo Returns to Slumberland #1 - After seeing some of the amazing preview tweets of art from Gabe Rodriguez, (@GR_Comics) I finally got to lay my hands on this stunning book.  Eric Shanower, who is no stranger to revisiting whimsical titles (Wizard of Oz for Marvel), reintroduces a generation to the world of Slumberland and the princesses playmate Nemo.   The first issue was a lot of fun that I plan on sharing with my kids.  I hope it remains an all-ages title and wonder if my daughter Zelda can relate to the new Nemo in regards to having a Dad who names children with pop culture references.  Very impressed with this debut.



The Fade Out #1 - Another impressive debut issue this week, a 40's crime noir from Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips.  While it seems that all Brubaker and Phillips do is write noir titles that typically surround the death of a beautiful dame, each title is so well written and distinct that I will purchase them as soon as they hit the shelf.  The Fade Out sets the stage nicely for a 40's Hollywood drama in which all is not as it seems.







Thursday, December 19, 2013

Thursday Morning Superhero

With the conclusion of Locke and Key today, I feel that a special edition of Thursday Morning Superhero is in order.  Instead of the usual round up of the books I am reading this week and how I feel about them, I wanted to write a letter to some folks who brought a tremendous amount joy to me and some of my friends.


Dear Joe Hill, Gabriel Rodriguez, and the good people of IDW Publishing:

I want to thank you for creating, drawing, and taking a chance on a story about a family that is dealing with tragedy in a magical world.  This series opened my mind to what is possible in comics, and made me appreciate the value in having a story with a set beginning, middle, and end.  While I would have loved this series to go on in perpetuity, it was clearly in the best interest of the Locke family to bring their story to an end (I am not sure they could handle more).

At times this series made me laugh, at times I cried, and at times I felt genuine fear.  From the first issue I was drawn in by the fine art of Rodriguez, and instantly felt compassion for those involved in the story.  Sure it was easy to hate Sam Lesser, but the way Hill made you feel sorry for him was simply stunning.  Luke Caravaggio was similar, in that it was easy to be repulsed by the vile things he did, but the writing of Hill really painted him as a sympathetic being.

The last chapter harkened back to the first chapter in a way that brought back a flood of emotions I felt for Tyler early on in this series.  I almost felt proud to see how much he grew and became the man of the family he needed to be in such a short amount of time (I also enjoyed the beard!).  The final issue of Locke and Key was a triumphant end to one of the best comic series I have ever had the pleasure to read.  It is rare to get such closure from something you care about so much.  Many shows and books have brought me in, only to leave me wanting more at the end (talking about you, Battlestar Galactica!).  This was not the case with Locke and Key.  The ending was wholly satisfying and I look forward to returning to Keyhouse and seeing the adventures of other members of the Locke family (you said this was possible at SDCC).

I fear that Hill and Rodriguez set the bar too high for other individuals in the comic industry.  This is a series that I always use to welcome new individuals into the world of comics.  It speaks to what a powerful medium this is and I wish more creators took advantage of it.

All of this reminiscing has made me a little misty.  Something tells me if you used the head key to open up my melon you would see the Locke Family going on adventures.  I feel like I am saying goodbye to a friend, but  at least it is on his or her own terms.  I will look back with fondness on our friendship, and wish you nothing but the best in the future.

Cheers and thank you so much for sharing this with us,


Mike

P.S. - Where can I get one of those rugs?  I love it!


Thursday, September 12, 2013

Thursday Morning Superhero

Yesterday marked one of the most bittersweet moments in my time as a comic book fan.  The beginning of the end in Locke and Key.  Locke and Key is one of those rare comics that transcends the medium.  When I typically find a comic that I enjoy I will only pressure my friends who read comics.  With Locke and Key, I would tell everyone I could think of to read this treasure.   I have been thanked numerous times for turning people on to the world of Locke and Key and will hopefully continue to spread the word of this literary masterpiece.  I know it will be a while before we revisit this world at the conclusion of Alpha, but I look forward to the day when Joe Hill and Gabriel Rodriguez bring us back to explore the history of Keyhouse.


Pick of the Week:
Locke and Key: Alpha #1 - I must admit that I was scared to read this issue.  The book sat next to me for most of the day taunting and daring me to crack the cover.  I wasn't scared because a series I loved was coming to its conclusion, I was scared for the well-being of the characters contained in its pages.  Dodge does not pull any punches after he opens the doorway to his sick and twisted brethren and I was honestly terrified as I read this issue.  I will not chance spoiling anything in this issue, but tears were shed, there were moments of celebration, and the alpha key is both a godsend and horrifying at the same time.  In addition to what seems to be a fitting ending to the opus from Hill and Rodriguez, the issue was packed with extras including photos from the filming of the failed pilot.  The bonus material felt like a gift for fans that reminds me of the attention to detail this series has had since its inception.  I am looking forward to the conclusion and to the immediate reread that will follow.

The Rest:
Walking Dead #114 - All out war is one month away and I am looking forward to staying up past my bedtime for the midnight release of issue #115.  In the meantime, the survivors finally chase Negan and his crew off their land and begin to prepare for an attack.  This week's highlight was when Ezekiel's tiger got off his leash for a snack.  Negan once again displays what a lowlife he is in the final bit of dialogue as he describes his gang as the big swinging dick of this world.  He does have a way with words.

Batman and Robin #23.2 Featuring Court of Owls - I was a sucker for the Court of Owls arc that launched Batman into the New 52 and decided to give Forever Evil another go to read more about the Court.  James Tynion IV, who penned many of the short stories in Scott Snyder's Batman run, schools us on the history of the Court and how they have remained in power for so long. We are teased with the history of the first talon, an out of control killing machine who turned on the Court, who is about to be awakened.  I am glad I returned to Forever Evil and will be sure to read part 2.




What I should have read:
Ghosted #3 - It shouldn't be too surprising that an Image title is generating some
positive buzz.  I gave Cloned a chance and had my doubts, but after reading the first trade I might revisit it.  From what I have read about Ghosted, it is a series that is full of secrets and chills that really rewards its reader.  The first two issues are only $1.99 on ComiXology so I may have to give the series a whirl.

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Thursday Morning Superhero

Despite over 12 hours of driving and over 750 miles on the road returning home from my Texas trip, Thursday Morning Superhero is delivered on time and loaded with quality titles.  I think it is unfair to the other comics that I read this week to be compared to Locke and Key.  I have never been so vested in a universe or a set of characters like the ones that Joe Hill and Gabriel Rodriguez have created.  Time for the least shocking pick of the week!


Pick of the Week:
Locke and Key: Omega #5 - This is a difficult book to review without spoiling it.  Anyone who has frequented this blog should know of my love of Locke and Key.  We left the last issue with Kinsey and a group of the senior class trapped in the drowning cave with Dodge and the Omega door wide open.  Rufus was in pursuit, but lagging behind and Tyler just took a bullet to the gut.  Things don't improve much in book 5, but we are left with a chance for hope and redemption.  Not only for the Locke children and their mother, but their father and, I hope, Dodge.  It is easy to forget what a tragic figure he is and I don't think that Hill and Rodriguez have either.  It is going to be difficult to wait for book 6, but I have no doubt that it will be worth it.

The Rest:
Age of Ultron #9 - Still enjoying this series and found a good amount of humor in what I will call the "Plan B" issue.  Multiple Wolverines travel  through time, alternative future Tony Stark has a plan, and Hank Pym thinks he gets it.  Should set up an interesting conclusion to a very entertaining series.

Artful Daggers #4 - I will admit that this title is beginning to confuse me with all of the backstabbing and politicking that is taking place in four short issues.  I am intrigued by this universe and the backstory of the Tricksters and will reread the series later this week, which I take as a good sign.  Really solid title, stunning artwork, and a great bargain from MonkeyBrain Comics.  Really worth your time and spare change.

Fairest #16 - Maharaja Charming continues to try and woo Nalayani when they are attacked by the Dhole.  The two team up to hunt down the remaining wolves when they find themselves in another sticky situation.  This arc has been packed with action, fun, good looking women, and some mysterious characters who have yet to reveal their true purpose.  Good times.

All New Secret Skullkickers #1 - Jim Zub brings more humor, action and fun to part four (yes, part four) of the Eighty Eyes on an Evil Island arc.  In an issue featuring a handy dandy Island map complete with where to get the best melons, a dangerous dungeon exploration montage, and a magical sword that prefers proper manners, Zub is able to poke fun at the comics industry, craft an interesting tale, and blend humor and action in a way that is uncanny.

Ten Grand #2 - J. Michael Straczynski has a hit on his hand with Ten Grand.  Joe Fitzgerald continues his searching for Debbie's sister Sarag, who was last seen with the man who killed both him and his lover.  A man he put a bullet in his head a couple of years back.  After crossing paths with a fleshist, Fitzgerald learns that the Divine Will cult is one step ahead of him and has taken possession of Debbie. Straczynski has managed to develop quite a bit of depth in 2 issues and has me on board.


Thursday, December 20, 2012

Thursday Morning Superhero

What an amazing week for comics.  I would like to claim that it is in spirit of the holiday why I am not picking a book that was "not as good" this week, but it is simply that every book was great this week. As I begin to think of a year-end top 10 list or something of the kind, all of the titles from this week have crossed my mind.  If you have ever considered getting into comics, then this may be the best week of 2012 to do so.

The Best:

Locke and Key Omega #2 - Joe Hill and Gabe Rodriguez finally gave me the book I have been waiting for since the characters introduction.  A Rufus issue!  Rufus, after quite the hiatus, makes his return in dramatic fashion.  Through his conversations you can't help but feel sympathy for this child who only had his mother to turn to in his 16 years of life.  Despite Dodge killing his mother, she is along with him as he appears to be the last hope in stopping Dodge.  This book is so packed full of heart and suspense that I can't help but encourage everyone I know to read this series.  In a comic market packed full of great books, this stands as my clear favorite and Omega has been a bittersweet ride thus far.

Runner-up:
Saga #8 - There is a reason that Saga was named the top new comic of 2012 in a vote on IGN.  The series is just amazing.  Chapter eight provides more insight into Marko's parents and actually includes the first moment that Alana and Marko meet.  Marko and his mom are still in a very dicey situation trying to track down their spirit babysitter and it seems that Alana and her father-in-law are truly hitting it off.  The big reveal is at the end of the issue and it seems that we will be revisiting the Will again quite soon.

The Rest:
Sixth Gun #27 - Cullen Bunn has the ability to make me want to reread his series with each new issue.  In the most recent book, Sinclair and Becky are still trapped in an endless winter by the Wendigo. Drake tries to bargain with the Wendigo to set the women and children free who it is holding captive, but the demon wants to ensure that the six guns do not fulfill their destiny.  Meanwhile, Gord, Kriby and Asher flee the Sword of Abraham as they attempt to reconnect with the guns and Sinclair and Becky.  The mystery grows with each issue in this series that I can't get enough of.

Mars Attacks #6 - Issue six brings us the start of a new story arc and a great jumping on point for Mars Attacks.  John Layman really kept the nostalgic and campy feel of the original Mars Attacks in the first arc and continues in arc two.  This arc seems to center around a child prodigy and a scientist who figured out the Z-frequency that is capable of stopping the martians.  The first wave is held back successfully but the Martians do not give up that easy.  I don't think they counted on Tommy Bailey (the child prodigy) who will probably throw the wrench in the gear of this plan.  Just a fun, violent series that I have really enjoyed.  Bonus trading card this round.




Fables #124 - The revolution in Oz finally comes to its conclusion only to learn of the adventures of Bufkin and Lily told through the eyes of Hangy the Rope.  It is safe to say this is a fun story that really brings a "human" quality to Bufkin as him and Lily rely on multiple spells, etc., in order to produce grandchildren of all types.  A solid standalone book that just leaves you feeling good inside.

Hawkeye #6 - We are treated to six days in the life of Hawkeye around the holidays and what fun it is.  In a simple issue that features Hawkeye setting up cable in his apartment, we are reminded that despite being a superhero, Hawkeye is a human being with some flaws.  In the end he does the right thing and will have some challenges because of that, but isn't that why we love superheros in the first place?  From the simplistic art to the creative storytelling, this is a series worth your time.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Thursday Morning Superhero

 Feel free to call me out for not picking a book that was not as good, but this week in comics was simply too good to be true.  This week included The Walking Dead, Saga, Punk Rock Jesus, Mind MGMT, and the return of Locke and Key.  Throw that in with another installment of Batman from Scott Snyder and a new X-Men book headed by Brian Michael Bendis and you can't go wrong.  I really struggled narrowing it down to the top two books this week.  I feel good in my selection, but you could make an argument for any of this week's releases.  Hit me up at @newhousebailey on Twitter if you want to chime in with your take.

Pick of the Week:

Locke and Key: Omega #1 - This week is bittersweet for many Locke and Key fans, including myself.  If you have read any of the interviews with Joe Hill about this chapter in the story, then you know that even he doesn't know how things will end.  This unknown is both terrifying and exciting at the same time.  The book starts out with Bode, under control of Dodge, securing the shadow key before heading down into the cave.  Meanwhile, Scot Kavanaugh embarks on a senior project making a film about reflection.  Kinsey, even though she isn't a senior, and Tyler participate and shed even more light on their past and the events that have transpired to this point.  The juxtaposition of the sheer terror of a Dodge possessed Bode threatening to open the black door and the seniors preparing for an end of the year party really put the reader in an awkward position.  On one side it is refreshing to see the Locke children begin to come to grips with their haunting past and seem to reach a point of peace and happiness that hasn't been seen in the book.  On the other side, the ultimate destruction of everything is imminent and it doesn't appear that much will stand in Dodge's way.  The final panel is a chilling image of just how dire the situation is.  I sure hope that issue #2 comes out quick!  Time for another re-read of the entire series!  This issue also featured some fun cameos from both Joe Hill and Gabe Rodriguez.


Saga #7 - I struggle when I try to convey how brilliant this book is.  The humor and heart that Brian K. Vaughan is able to impart in his books is astounding.  This issue opens with an awkward confrontation between Alana and Marko's parents that ends with Alana left humiliated in a towel alone with her father-in-law. Marko and his mother leave the spaceship to save Izabel (who was banished by Marko's mother) and we learn a jaw-dropping secret about Marko's father.  I don't think I will ever have the ability to state how beautiful, funny, and suspense filled this book is.  Coupled with Fiona Staple's art, this is one of the must have titles of the year.


The Rest:

All-New X-men #1 - Brian Michael Bendis has been tasked with tackling the X-Men arc following the aftermath of the Phoenix incident.  With the rebirth of mutant-kind from Phoenix, Scott Summers, Magneto and Emma Frost are rounding up new mutants before the human authorities can get their hands on them.  The one downside, his exploits are being televised and there is concern this will impact human-mutant relations.  Hank McCoy is afraid that his next mutation is going to kill him and he wants to complete one more good deed before he dies.  This deed, travel back in time and bring the Scott Summers of the original X-Men to the present day for a pep talk with his new self.  Intriguing story line and solid first issue.  I'm in.

Batman #14 - As long as Scott Snyder is writing Batman I will be reading it.  The Court of Owls was amazing and Death in the Family is off to a fast and furious start.  Batman finally learns that Alfred is kidnapped, Commissioner Gordon is poisoned, and the Joker has vowed to kill the rest of the family using Batman himself.  This is going to be one hell of a ride.

Hoax Hunters #5 - As someone new to this title I found this book very enjoyable.  A simple, but fun story that introduces the reader to the Hoax Hunters world and what it entails.  We are provided the story of the Jersey Devil and how the Hoax Hunters team not only successfully swept that under the rug, but provided some back story on how Jack Lawson was really part of this team before he knew it.  Seems like a great starting point for new readers like myself.

Punk Rock Jesus #5 - With only one more issue left to go in Sean Murphy's epic tale of the second coming of Jesus, J2 is reunited with Thomas and the two begin to plot how to take down Slate and his cronies.   J2 and his punk band, the Flak Jackets won a Nobel Peace prize for their efforts furthering science and helping the poor.  Through a chilling flashback we learn why Thomas left the IRA and has such a soft spot for children.  This issue ends with the Flak Jackets embarking on a final show at Jerusalem.  Can't wait to see how this one ends!

Walking Dead #104 - Wow does Kirkman know how to keep the reader hooked.  Negan and his men drive triumphantly home and Rick is left with his group disappointed in his apparent surrender.  I don't know if anyone is as disappointed as Carl who attempts to take things into his own hands.  One thing is clear, this current arc is not going to end pretty. 

Mind MGMT #0 -In this one-shot, we are treated to Meru's investigation of Mind Management and we learn about past agents spanning all the way back to World War I.  There are whispers of Henry and the usual Mind Management psychic techniques.  Not my favorite issue of the bunch, but a fun issue nonetheless.  Matt Kindt continues to deliver a physical comic that is worth your money.  The watercolor format is simply stunning.  I can't wait for arc #2.