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Elfbytes March '09

 

(Note: this is not your average cut and paste, we actually write this stuff.)

This is for product starting to ship in May 2009.

This months Elfbyte credit goes to: Brock, James, Craig, Sean, Thomas & Ethan.

For your convenience, click links below to jump to a certain Publisher.

Independent Comics  |  Dark Horse Comics  |  DC Comics
Image Comics  |  Marvel Comics  |  Toys & Stuff

Remember to get your orders in ASAP!  Initial orders due March 25th!

 
 
 INDEPENDENT COMICS HIGHLIGHTS
 
 

ANTARCTIC PRESS

CYBERTRONIAN: UNOFFICIAL TRANSFORMERS GUIDE POCKET MANGA VOL 1 TP

A digest-sized guide to every Transformers toy released from 1984-1987, a guide to the Marvel Comics run, and a section devoted to the greatest Transformers movie ever - the cartoon one that has that ‘80s power ballad throughout. You Got The Touch!

 

ARCHIE COMICS

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES ADVENTURES VOL 1 TP: HEROES IN A HALFSHELL

Written & illustrated by Michael Dooney.

Turtle Power! Man, I remember these! And I remember that kick-ass arcade game that got ported into a kick-ass NES game that had kick-ass ads for Pizza Hut through the whole thing. This year is the Turtle’s 25th anniversary, so let’s hope that nostalgia can work its magic and we can somehow get the original Eastman & Laird TMNT back into print.

 

AVATAR PRESS

FREAK ANGELS VOL. 2 TP

Written by Warren Ellis. Illustrated by Paul Duffield.

For those of you who aren’t reading this series on-line, volume two of this excellent story is now in print. Anyone who read the first volume has likely been eagerly awaiting this next instalment, and for anyone who hasn’t read this yet but enjoys well crafted stories, now is your chance to discover a very good one.

 

BOOM! STUDIOS

THE UNTHINKABLE #1 (of 4)

start reading here!

Written by Mark Sable. Illustrated by Julian Totino Tedesco.

This one has a pretty cool concept, and should be worth picking up. A post 9-11 think-tank has been created whose sole purpose is to imagine the most horrific scenarios so that the government can prepare for defence against these remote nightmare possibilities. And then things go south in a hurry.

 

DRAWN & QUARTERLY

GEORGE SPROTT HC

Written & illustrated by Seth.

A fictional biography of a grumpy old man. Although on the surface this is a book about a dead man, Seth's really good a making things funny then depressing. Worth a look, and if you haven't read Seth's earlier book, IT’S A GOOD LIFE IF YOU DON’T WEAKEN, then you're missing out.

 

DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

THE BOYS: HEROGASM #1 (of 6)

Written by Garth Ennis. Illustrated by John McCrea.

The HITMAN creative team reunites for a superpowered clusterfuck of epic proportions. Every superteam introduced in The Boys will collide, and I'm sure there will be boobies and innards. Also, THE BOYS #30 has a variant cover by Jim Lee!

 

BUCK ROGERS #0

start reading here!

Written by Scott Beatty. Illustrated by Carlos Rafael. Covers by John Cassaday & Alex Ross.

Dynamite continues to re-invent some of the classics, and so far their track-record is pretty good. And with the first issue priced at only $0.25 US (likely slightly higher in Canadian pesos), there’s no reason not to give it a shot.

 

SHERLOCK HOLMES #1

Written by Leah Moore & John Reppion. Illustrated by Aaron Campbell. Cover by John Cassaday.

Another classic is being adapted by Leah Moore & John Reppion. Maybe they can write a cross-over with their other Dynamite book, THE COMPLETE DRACULA.

 

FANFARE / POTENT MON

A DISTANT NEIGHBORHOOD VOL. 1 GN

Written & illustrated by Jiro Taniguchi.

Taniguchi is one of my favourite artists, and brings an amazing level of detail to any story he illustrates. He's done some excellent crime / noir manga like HOTEL HARBOUR and BENKEI IN NEW YORK, as well as more thoughtful, calmer pieces like THE ICE WANDERER and THE WALKING MAN. This is a story about a man who returns to the town he grew up in, only to be transported back to his teenage years but with all of his adult memories. Will he be able to stop his father from abandoning his family or stop his mother from dying? Or will he just be forced to watch all his painful memories all over again?

 

FIRST SECOND

THE ETERNAL SMILE GN

Written by Gene Yang. Illustrated by Derek Kirk Kim.

Two Asian-American cartoonists collaborate for the first time with three tales of fantasy and imagination. Never read anything by Yang, but I know Derek Kirk Kim's SAME DIFFERENCE AND OTHER STORIES is really good.

 

HEAVY METAL

LUIS ROYO: DEAD MOON HC

Written & illustrated by Luis Royo.

A fantasy / pervert take on Romeo & Juliet. There are two great empires locked in a bitter struggle fuelled by passion: one is an alluring female society and another is a warlike man-cave. There will be boobies and innards.

 

I.D.W. PUBLISHING

ASTRO BOY MOVIE PREQUEL: UNDERGROUND #1

Written by Scott Tipton. Illustrated by Diego Jordan. Covers by Diego Jordan & Ashley Wood.

Okay, I like IDW, they do a lot of cool books, but this is unacceptable. YOU DO NOT FUCK WITH OSAMU TEZUKA. I know he's dead and all, and can't do his own movie prequel adaptations, but you know what? We should just be made to suffer and be thankful we got his amazing comics.

 

BILLBOARDS HC

Written by Clifford Meth. Illustrated by Dave Gutierrez.

A near-future tale of people selling their bodies to be tattooed and used to advertise products. But there is a sinister purpose to these new billboards, unknown to their “hosts”.  Cynical paranoia ensues.

 

PANTHEON BOOKS

 

ASTERIOS POLYP

Written & illustrated by David Mazzucchelli.

Mazzucchelli, collaborator with Frank Miller on the classics DAREDEVIL BORN AGAIN and BATMAN YEAR ONE, creates what might become a modern masterpiece.

His art style has evolved, but I’ve seen a preview copy of it, and it looks Phenomenal! Do not miss this! 

THREE RIVERS PRESS

THE ZOMBIE SURVIVAL GUIDE: RECORDED ATTACKS GN

Written by Max Brooks. Illustrated by various.

Okay, I think the zombie thing is pretty played out and deserves to die (no pun intended). But I'll make an exception for this since it's written by the guy who wrote the magnificent novel WORLD WAR Z. This graphic novel is a record of the various zombie attacks throughout history, from our ancestors in Afrcia to Soviet experiments gone horribly wrong.

TOP SHELF

FAR ARDEN HC C

Written & illustrated by Kevin Cannon.

Featuring the strange character Army Shanks, and his quest to find the mythical island of Far Arden, this is an adventure story like no other.

 

TWOMORROWS PUBLISHING

THE EXTRAORDINARY WORKS OF ALAN MOORE (INDISPENSABLE EDITION) ) TP

Written by George Khoury.

This book is a series of interviews, but wide ranging and supposedly covering his entire career (I’m quite curious to read what he has to say about DC - it’s always fun to hear the genius hermit rant). Also featuring some tribute comic strips written & illustrated by many of Moore’s famous collaborators, which should be quite interesting to see.

 
 
DARK HORSE COMICS HIGHLIGHTS
 
 

RAPTURE #1 (of 6)

Written by Michael Avon Oeming & Taki Soma. Illustrated by Michael Avon Oeming.

A high concept mini that explores what happens when all of the superheroes are removed from the world, and an apparently omniscient being bestows powers on mere mortals. Focusing on two young lovers, one “blessed” and one who’s powerless. Can the average person reconcile love and power?

Think of this as “boy meets girl, boy loses girl” combined with the Biblical rapture, via superpowers. Some interesting stuff and it has possibility, but it might end up being a bit too much to fit into the blender.

 

CAGES

Written & illustrated by Dave McKean.

Dave McKean is best known as the frequent collaborator of one Neil Gaiman, although he has also created some stunning work of his own. This meandering chronicle of a painter, a writer, and a musician living in the same apartment is a fascinating examination of God, cats, and the cages we live in, and is possibly one of the finest works of modern graphic fiction. Now a true classic is finally back in print, in an affordable softcover, and is a must for your collection!

 

THE GOON VOL. 8 TP: THOSE THAT IS DAMNED

Written & illustrated by Eric Powell.

Celebrate 10 years of GOON, as Eric Powell once again delivers you more of the GOON you love. This eighth collection follows immediately after the seventh volume, and is the second of a three-part trade paperback series, which will be the most epic GOON tale yet – “The Return of Labrazio”!

 

THE LIFE AND TIMES OF MARTHA WASHINGTON IN THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY

Written by Frank Miller. Illustrated by Dave Gibbons.

This super-deluxe hardcover could also be called “Absolute Martha”, but another company might protest. Martha Washington is a twenty-first century freedom fighter who escapes a maximum security housing project in Chicago to reintroduce the notion of Liberty to a broken United States. This volume collects the entire Martha Washington epic, originally told over several limited series and one-shots by Moore & Gibbons (best known for a little story called WATCHMEN), and is filled with great sketches and behind-the-scenes materials. A must for fans of either of the two creators.

 

PIXU: THE MARK OF EVIL HC

Written & illustrated by Gabriel Ba, Becky Cloonan, Vasilis Lolos, and Fabio Moon.

A tale of a haunted apartment building brought to you by talented, TALENTED creators. Ba has drawn CASANOVA and UMBRELLA ACADEMY. Cloonan drew AMERICAN VIRGIN and DEMO. Moon drew CASANOVA and Joss Whedon's SUGARSHOCK on Myspace. No idea what the stories will be like, but at the very least, this is going to look awesome!

 

SOLOMON KANE VOLUME 1 : THE CASTLE OF THE DEVIL

Written by. Scott Allie Illustrated by. Mario Guevara

Having a weakness for stories delving into the supernatural and those strong silent characters Solon Kane spoke to me. How can I tell you about this character in a few words, ah yes I got it: An evil smiting puritan version of Rambo. Very enjoyable series based on another Rober E Howard creation. All of them are actually pretty good now that I think of it.

 
     
 
DC COMICS HIGHLIGHTS
 
 

BATMAN: BATTLE FOR THE COWL #3 (of 3)

Written by Tony Daniel. Illustrated by Tony Daniel & Sandu Florea.

The epic story to determine who will inherit the cowl concludes here, and will affect almost every character with ties to Gotham City and result in several new and relaunched series next month!

 

BATMAN IN BARCELONA: DRAGON'S KNIGHT #1 (one-shot)

Written by Mark Waid. Illustrated by Diego Olmos. Cover by Jim Lee.

Native Barcelonese superstar artist Diego Olmos (SUPERNATURAL: RISING SON) illustrates the Dark Knight’s invasion of Barcelona’s sunny shores. Any chance Bruce Wayne will get a chance to see a FC Barcelona vs. Real Madrid football match? Gooooooaaalll! I guess Batman's not dead in Spain. It must be a time zone thing: I can never figure those out.

 

BATMAN CONFIDENTIAL #29

Written by Andrew Kreisberg. Illustrated by Scott McDaniel & Andy Owens. Cover by Stephane Roux.

This two part story “Bad Cop” is a sequel to the recent Joker / GCPD arc in Batman Confidential #22-25. A Gotham City Police officer who was tortured by the Joker has succumbed to the lure of evil and has become the newest menace that Batman must confront.

 

FINAL CRISIS AFTERMATH: DANCE #1 (of 6)

Written by Joe Casey. Illustrated by ChrisCross. Cover by Stanley “Artgem” Lau.

Grant Morrison gave Japan their very own superhero team in the pages of FINAL CRISIS, and although they practically saved the world in that series, their actions were unnoticed and they are all but unknown even in their own country. But in this new series, members “Most Excellent Superbat”, “Big Atomic Lantern Boy”, “Shy Crazy Lolita Canary”, “Shiny Happy Aquazon”, and “Well-spoken Sonic Lightning Flash” get a new American teammate, and events will be set in motion to break the Super Young Team into fullblown superheroes or destroy them forever. This book should be noticed not because it spins out of a major corporate crossover, but because it features Joe Casey's superhero writing, which is often excellent, excellent stuff.

 

FINAL CRISIS AFTERMATH: INK #1 (of 6)

Written by Eric Wallace. Illustrated by Fabrizio Fiorentino. Cover by Brian Stelfreeze.

Another thing that Morrison did was to turn the Tattooed Man into a superhero within the pages of Final Crisis, even granting him honorary Justice League status. This six issue limited series examines what it takes for a former villain to keep his head above the water, no matter how tempting it is to sink down to the depths of villainy once again.

 

FINAL CRISIS AFTERMATH: ESCAPE #1 (of 6)

By Ivan Brandon and Marco Rudi

Nemesis and a host of others from the superhuman intelligence community are being detained and tortured abu garib style by the misnamed Global Peace Agency. As he begins the painful process of plotting his titular escape, he soon finds that he has no allies among his fellow victims as he rails against the information mining, he’ll come to a shocking revelation that may change his and your outlook on everything.

To be honest, not really excited for any of these aftermath series, but I have two words for you: Ivan Brandon. This is one hella talented writer, and the reason my interested is so piqued with this mini. I’ll give this one a chance on his merits because Brandon has yet to let me down.

 

FINAL CRISIS AFTERMATH: RUN! #1 (of 6)

Written by Matthew Sturges. Illustrated by Freddie Williams II. Cover by Kako.

You know how you sometimes make a choice that seems like a good idea at the time, only to have it come back and bite you in the ass later on? Welcome to the Human Flame’s world. Not only did he cause the death of the beloved Martian Manhunter - putting the heroes on his trail - but he also sold out the villains to the dearly departed Libra - putting the villains on his trail as well. What’s a guy to do but ... RUN!

 

LAST DAYS OF ANIMAL MAN #1 (of 6)

Written by Gerry Conway. Illustrated by Chris Batista & Dave Meikis. Cover by Brian Bolland.

With Conway coming back to the DC family after a long and successful run on TV’s Law and Order this has the potential to be the best Animal Man story since Grant Morrison’s glorious run. Set 15 years in the future, Buddy Baker is struggling with the way his life, and even his world have turned out. Long the champion of the everyman, Buddy has lost his struggle to maintain his marriage, see to his family, save his city and uphold his ideals. Now, with his powers failing, his family drifted apart, and his city in ruins, the progeny of his arch nemesis comes calling. Can Buddy muster the strength and will to make one last stand and save himself and San Diego from a new, more ruthless class of villain?

Well, we can't have a happily married, well adjusted superhero, can we? No, there must be Drama for the children who read the comics. Here then, is “Dark Animal Man Returns”, as it's 2024, the world sucks, and Buddy Baker is the only one who can save us all.

 

ORACLE #3 (of 3)

Written by Kevin VanHook. Illustrated by Julian Lopez & Bit. Cover by Guilliem March.

Okay, so even if you haven’t been reading this limited series thus far, there might be some significant events happening in this issue that will significantly affect Barbara Gordon and change the world of Gotham in a very big way.

 

POWER GIRL #1

start reading here!

Written by Jimmy Palmiotti & Justin Gray. Illustrated by Amanda Conner. Covers by Amanda Conner and Adam Hughes.

Fan-favourite character Power Girl finally gets her own series brought to us by the fantastic creative team of Palmiotti, Gray, and Conner. Their love for the character has been well documented, as well as their own considerable talents, so this title is very quickly on the way to being one of the breakout hits of the year. Of course, when you boil it down, this is a new series featuring giant boobs! Who says comics are just for awkward men with unrealistic expectations of female bodies and a chronic incapability to look a woman in the eyes and get to know her as a person? You're making comics better. Good for you.

 

R.E.B.E.L.S. #4

Written by Tony Bedard. Illustrated by Claude St. Aubin & Scott Hanna.

With this title, DC proves that they can still deliver galaxy spanning space opera goodness. Vril Dox, the Omega Men, the Khunds and the Dominators all have to prepare as a mysterious new galactic menace stands revealed.

 

SECRET SIX #9

Written by Gail Simone. Illustrated by Nicola Scott & Doug Hazlewood.

Are Catman and Ragdoll the new Batman and Robin? They’re dark horse candidates for the job, but help prove yet again just how good Simone’s writing is.

Okay, so this might not be an official BATTLE FOR THE COWL tie-in, but Simone does the obvious (yet still very clever), and shows us how the characters in this series react to the events transpiring in Gotham.

As battle for the cowl concludes this month, two members of the secret six are late to jump on board the train. With a solicit like Ragdoll determined to be the new boy wonder, I can’t help but smile. I’m excited to see how far Gail Simone will take this. I have to say I love this group they give me that sick feel good feeling whenever I crack into one of these books.

 

SUPERGIRL #41

Written by Sterling Gates. Illustrated by Talent Caldwell.

Man, the SUPERGIRL title hasn’t been this consistently good since Peter David’s “Earth Angel” days. This issue concludes the “Who is Superwoman” story arc, providing answers to mysteries and leaving Kara stuck in a brutal fight she may not win. While this may not necessarily be a great jumping on point for new readers, as the conclusion to an arc, if you have any love for costumed superheroics you should do yourself a favour and pick this title up.

 

SUPERMAN #688

Written by James Robinson. Illustrated by Renato Guedes & Jose Wilson Magalhaes.

Mon-El, handpicked by Superman himself to guard Metropolis, finds himself in a bit of trouble as, like Supes himself has done many times, he loses his powers. Oops.

Filling in for Superman would be a daunting task for any hero, but doing it without your powers? Talk about a challenging first day at work. Plus, as Metropolis fill in hero Mon El struggles with his new role, Guardian and his Science police step in to try and rescues a missing member of the Legion of Superheroes.

 

ACTION COMICS #877

Written by Greg Rucka. Illustrated by Eddy Barrows & Ruy Jose.

Ursa continues her assault against Nightwing and Flamebird. Apparently it’s going to be brutal and personal.

Hmmm.

 

SUPERMAN: WORLD OF NEW KRYPTON #3 (of 12)

Written by James Robinson & Greg Rucka. Illustrated by Pete Woods. Cover by Gary Frank.

Remember when the Zod and Kal-El relationship was all about bombastic commands to kneel? Well, now that Kal is under Zod’s command in the New Krypton army, the good General is now giving bombastic commands to commit acts of brutality. Will the farm boy stand for that?

 

SUPERMAN / BATMAN #60

Written by Michael Green & Mike Johnson. Illustrated by Francis Manapul.

Fresh off a critically acclaimed run illustrating the recently wrapped up LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES, rising star Francis Manapul gets a shot at illustrating the World’s Finest in a two-parter set in a strange city called “Gothamopolis” and starring the Justice Titans. The who?
Read it and you’ll see.

 

WARLORD #2

Written by Mike Grell. Illustrated by Joe Prado & Walden Wong. Cover by Mike Grell.

The return of Warlord! Yes, we’re still excited about this. The new adventure continues as the newly arrived surface-worlders create numerous problems, and only Travis Morgan, The Warlord, can hope to save Skartaris.

 

ALL STAR BATMAN AND ROBIN, THE BOY WONDER VOL. 1 TP

Written by Frank Miller. Illustrated by Jim Lee Scott Williams.

The god-damn Batman sees the first nine issues of his tales collected in softcover, for you to read again and again.

 

BATMAN: WHATEVER HAPPENED TO THE CAPED CRUSADER? DELUXE EDITION HC

Written by Neil Gaiman. Illustrated by Andy Kubert, Scott Williams, Mark Buckingham, Bernie Mierault, Matt Wagner, and Simon Bisley.

Not only does this beautiful hardcover contain Neil Gaiman’s “Batman R.I.P.” aftermath masterpiece, it also contains all of the previous Batman stories he’s written.

 

GREEN LANTERN: RAGE OF THE RED LANTERNS HC

Written by Geoff Johns. Illustrated by Shane Davis & Sandra Hope, Ivan Reis & Oclair Albert, and Mike McKone & Andy Lanning.

Covering the creation of the Alpha Lanterns, the arrival of the powerful Blue Lantern Corps, and the brutal first assault of the vicious Red Lanterns, this volume heralds the beginning of the War of Light, first prophesied in the Sinestro Corps War. Still arguably the best written series in the DCU, the mythology that Johns and company have carefully created continues its build-up to the hotly anticipated Blackest Night.

 

GREEN LANTERN CORPS: SINS OF THE STAR SAPPHIRE TP

Written by Peter J. Tomasi. Illustrated by Patrick Gleason, Luke Ross, Drew Geraci, and Fabio Laguna.

While the Red of Rage and the Blue of Hope are covered in the Green Lantern series, the Purple spectrum of Love is dealt with in its sister title, the Green Lantern Corps. People have often said that Love is the greatest power in the universe. In this volume, Lanterns Kyle Rayner, Guy Gardner, and Soranek Natu discover that that might not be just hyperbole.

 

HITMAN VOL. 1 TP: A RAGE IN ARKHAM

Written by Garth Ennis. Illustrated by John McCrea.

The story of hit man Tommy Monaghan is finally back in print, and it’s about time! Fans will rejoice, and anyone who missed the fun the first time around can finally enjoy the ride.

 

SUPERMAN: WHATEVER HAPPENED TO THE MAN OF TOMORROW? DELUXE EDITION HC

Written by Alan Moore. Illustrated by Dave Gibbons, Curt Swan, George Perez, and Rick Veitch.

Just in time to milk some more WATCHMEN money out of you, here's every Superman story Alan Moore's ever done. Lots of good stuff in here.

 

TRINITY VOL. 1 TP

Written by Kurt Busiek & Fabian Nicieza. Illustrated by Mark Bagley & others.

The most recent (and likely last) year-long weekly series gets its first (of, appropriately enough) three volumes. Now you can read the epic tale by Busiek & Bagley, and see the related back-up stories by Nicieza too.

 

VERTIGO

The “Great Fables Crossover” continues this month in all three FABLES titles, as characters jump ship from their own titles and continue their attempt to solve the dangerous mystery facing all of them.

FABLES #84 - “The Great Fables Crossover” part 4

Written by Bill Willingham & Matthew Sturges. Illustrated by Tony Akins & Andrew Pepoy.

JACK OF FABLES #34 - “The Great Fables Crossover” part 5

Written by Bill Willingham & Matthew Sturges. Illustrated by Russ Braun & Jose Marzan Jr..

THE LITERALS #2 (of 3) - “The Great Fables Crossover” part 6

Written by Bill Willingham & Matthew Sturges. Illustrated by Mark Buckingham & Andrew Pepoy.

 

HELLBLAZER #255

Written by Peter Milligan. Illustrated by Goran Sudzuka & Rodney Ramos. Cover by Lee Bermejo.

Sometimes it really sucks to be John Constantine. Slipping in and out of consciousness, John is forced to come face to face with the one emotion he can never seem to deal with: love. Someone call the Star Sapphires.

 

HOUSE OF MYSTERY #13

Written by Matthew Sturges, Bill Willingham, and Chris Roberson. Illustrated by Neal Adams, Ralph Reese, Eric Powell, and Sergio Aragones.

You can tell that this is a very special issue of House of Mystery just by looking at the credits. This issue contains four stories dealing with the supposed “unluckiest” of numbers in the western lore (although that distinction falls to the number “4” in most Asian cultures), each written and illustrated by some of the most talented people in the industry. And for those unfamiliar with the name, Chris Roberson is an extremely talented sci-fi / fantasy writer.

 

NORTHLANDERS #17

Written by. BRIAN WOOD Illustrated by.VASILIS LOLOS

This latest arc of Northlanders is going to be something special. A one on one death match between two Vikings. Seems simple enough, but the arc will detail art of Viking warfare by deconstructing it in this 1 on 1 combat. Fascinating, nice to see people try new things.

 

 MADAME XANADU #11

start reading here!

Written by Matt Wagner. Illustrated by Michael Wm. Kaluta.

This issue marks the beginning of a five issue arc as Madame Xanadu’s original illustrator, the esteemed Michael Kaluta, joins forces with regular scribe Wagner to tell the tale of a 500 year old mystery spanning the time of the Spanish Inquisition and 1940’s New York. If you have been enjoying Amy Reeder Hadley’s rendition of the sorceress but long to see something a bit more… seductive, you’re in for a treat.

 

THE UNWRITTEN #1

start reading here!

Written by Mike Carey. Illustrated by Peter Gross.

The creative team behind Vertigo’s LUCIFER series reunites to bring us a new mystery about the blurring between fiction and reality, and what happens to someone when they get caught in the middle. Tom Taylor is the ostensible model for the title character of a series mega popular boy-wizard novels written by his father. But when his father disappears, the mysteries begin and Tom realizes that he might be more than he seems ... he may actually be the fictional boy wizard made flesh. The first issue is only $1, so giving this promising new series a shot won’t hurt your wallet. 

 

THE ABSOLUTE DEATH HC

Written by Neil Gaiman. Illustrated by Mark Buckingham, Chris Bachalo, and others.

The perfect companion to the beautiful ABSOLUTE SANDMAN hardcovers, this volume collects almost every appearance of Gaiman’s Death (the manga Little Death stories being the only exception). A must for any fan, and a lovely addition to any collection.

 

HOUSE OF MYSTERY VOL. 2 TP: STORIES FOR DEAD PEOPLE E

Written by Matthew Sturges & Bill Willingham. Illustrated by Luca Rossi and others.

The second volume of this excellent new series arrives with answers to some of the mysteries, but bringing many more unresolved questions. This volume also features fantastic guest artists David Peterson (MOUSE GUARD), Bernie Wrightson (SWAMP THING), Kyle Baker, and more.

 

THE NOBODY HC

Written by. JEFF LEMIRE Illustrated by. JEFF LEMIRE

Vertigo always does great OGN’s and after being so pleasantly surprised with The Alcoholic, I’m excited to check out more of these, especially if it’s got an Invisible Man vibe. When a stranger wrapped from head to toe in bandages arrives at an isolated fishing town, the town takes him in, but what do his bandages really hide?

 

WILDSTORM

EX MACHINA #42

Written by Brian K. Vaughan. Illustrated by Tony Harris & Jim Clark.

The exploration of the origin of the Great Machine’s mysterious powers continues, and the mysteries that have lingered since the beginning of the series continue to have some light shed upon them. All in time for the impending big finish. If you haven’t been reading, now is the time, as the end is nigh!

 

KILLAPALOOZA #1 (of 6)

Written by Adam Beechen. Illustrated by Trevor Hairsine.

The Clap are the biggest rockstars on the planet but they're also a top-secret metahuman assassin squad. Ready to hang up the guitars and silencers, they take one last job. Unfortunately they may not survive the opening act when an up and comer looks to make a name.  I bet they get laid. Like, SUPER laid.

 

OCEAN NEW EDITION TP

Written by Warren Ellis. Illustrated by Chris Sprouse & Karl Story.

Warren Ellis is a master of science fiction, and this series is a testament to that. When Nathan Kane, a UN Weapons Inspector, is sent to Jupiter’s moon Europa to learn about the alien life forms under its icy surface, he soon bites off more than he can chew as he faces off against violent humans who want the alien tech for themselves and the mysterious extra terrestrials.

 

SLEEPER SEASON ONE TP

Written by Ed Brubaker. Illustrated by Sean Phillips.

The first collaboration between the creative team of CRIMINAL and INCOGNITO was a superpowered crime thriller for WildStorm. Holden Carver is on his way up the ranks of a superpowered mafia. The only problem is, he's a government agent. The other only problem is his handler is in a coma. And the other only other problem is he can't come out of the cold because the good guys think he's a bad guy, but he can't let the bad guys know he's a good guy. If you like anything Brubaker has written, you will love this book! It is soon to be a major motion picture, so read it before it becomes the next big blockbuster.

Want to know where this creative team became awesome? Look no further than Sleeper. This page turning, crime thriller about a double agent stuck undercover after his handler is unexpectedly shot into a coma is brilliant. One of the best stories I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading, just pisses me off that they only bring it back in print when a movie looms. But I can’t complain, back in print to recommend to all you people out there. Enjoy. 

 
     
 
    IMAGE COMICS HIGHLIGHTS
 
 

CYBERFORCE / HUNTER-KILLER / AVENGERS / THUNDERBOLTS: FUSION #1 (of 3)

Written by Dan Abnett & Andy Lanning. Illustrated by Tyler Kirkham.

Ripclaw goes on a rampage and the Avengers are sent to capture him and force him to register (are they still doing that?) so of course, CyberForce butts in to fight. A big brouh-ha-ha ensues.

 

SPAWN: ARCHITECTS OF FEAR ONE-SHOT

Written by Arthur Claire. Illustrated by Aleksi Briclot.

French Spawn! See him terrorize criminals with his magical, undead baguettes! See him defeat evil with a snotty, snotty attitude! Watch as his timer runs out and he can no longer wear berets! From the creative team that brought you SPAWN SIMONY, and including behind-the-scenes section with additional art and commentary about the project.

In all seriousness, Aleksi Briclot is an insanely talented artist who doesn’t get enough work. Aside from a good story, you’ll get 64 pages of beautiful artwork and even a behind the scenes look at this wonderful artist at work. Wow I’m actually excited about Spawn, I feel like I’m back in 1994.

 

WITCHBLADE #127

Written by Ron Marz. Illustrated by Stjepan Sejic.

“Battle of the Witchblade” continues, as mysteries are revealed and tensions become even higher between the two women who wield the power of the Witchblade. Read this epic to discover who will ultimately be victorious.

 

YOUNGBLOOD #9

Written & illustrated by Rob Liefeld.

Hide your babies, plug your ears and shut your eyes, ‘cause if you don’t you will most certainly bleed out of every orifice. Rob Liefeld returns to the title that he created! Sorry I just threw up in my mouth. If you want entertainment don’t pick this title up but instead go into your favourite comic book store and ask a man behind the counter wearing glasses just what Rob Liefeld’s problem is, then sit back and enjoy the show!

 

DEAD @17: ULTIMATE EDITION TP

Written & illustrated by Josh Howard.

When 17year old Nara Kiday is murdered at the hands of a cult, it sends shockwaves throughout her small sleepy town. But that’s nothing compared to the shock of seeing her rise up from the grave, alive and well! But this act may just spell the end of all mankind. This is the perfect way to read a cool, thought provoking horror series just in time for the launch of a new series.

 

I KILL GIANTS TP

Written by Joe Kelly. Illustrated by J.M. Ken Niimura.

A young girl tackles her fears (both literal and imagined) in this excellent under the radar series from last year.

Talk about a book that’s gotten a lot of hype and praise eh? Well it’s do to one simple thing, it’s Joe Kelly doing his thing. The man is mad talented, and writing a book about a girl who fights monsters both real and imagined. This I can’t wait for.

 

POWER UP GN

Written by. Doug Tennapel Illustrated by. Doug Tennapel 

From the creator of Earthworm Jim and other classics like Monster Zoo, comes a new OGN. The story of Hugh Randolph a mindless drone at a local printer who discovers a video game console that allows him to live his life like a video game, even cheat death. Here is a truly original creator who has a talent at telling interesting, poignant and very funny stories.

 

 
     
    MARVEL COMICS HIGHLIGHTSHTS  
 

CAPTAIN AMERICA #50

Written by Ed Brubaker. Illustrated by Luke Ross.

This special anniversary issue sees Bucky Barnes reflect on his birthdays over his long life - from the Depression to WWII to his days as the Winter Soldier to being the new Captain America. Quite probably Marvel’s best title, by a writer who is definitely as good as it gets in comics right now.

The New Cap celebrates his birthday by reminiscing about all of his favourite and least favourite memories. Anyone else wondering if the time he spent as a girl in Liefield's butchering falls in the good or bad category?

 

CAPTAIN BRITAIN & MI13 #13

Written by Paul Cornell. Illustrated by Leonard Kirk.

The battle against Dracula and his vampire hordes continues, with traitors and betrayals making things even more difficult for Pete Wisdom’s crew. This book is consistently great, so do yourself a favour and start reading it now!

 

DARK TOWER : FALL OF GILEAD #1 (of 6)

By the same great creative team as last time.

For those of you who have stubbornly resisted reading beautifully illustrated, ingeniously written adaptation of one of the all time greatest fantasy series, as created by one of the most noted modern writers might we convince you to change your foolish ways? The prior 3 adaptations are all still available to order in TPB format.

 

DARK REIGN ELEKTRA #3 (of 5)

Written by. Zeb Wells Illustrated by. Clay Mann

It’s Bullseye, posing as Hawkeye, versus Elektra! Hot diggity damn, I love it when Christmas comes early. I love the daredevil gallery of characters and seeing this is just a can’t miss read. Wells is a good writer so I have faith he will make this every bit as good as the erection I have while writing this. Too much info? Maybe.

 

DARK REIGN: YOUNG AVENGERS #1 (of 5)

By Paul Cornell and Mark Brooks

Talk about your bad ideas, relaunch a title with none of the exciting new characters you had originally introduced in the hopes no one notices. That said, if you’ve been pining for a comic featuring the unequaled Egghead, or hugely popular Big Zero then this must be like a second Christmas for you.  Me?  I am very flaccid.

 

DARK REIGN: THE HOOD #1 (of 5)

By Jeff Parker and Kyle Hotz

Little known artist Hotz teamed with little known writer Brian K Vaughn almost a decade ago to create a little known character named the Hood. Both Vaughn and the Hood have since made it big, and now, back where it all started, Hotz is going to complete the hat trick. This is, in my opinion the most promising of all the Dark Reign tie-ins.

 

DEADPOOL #10

By Daniel Way and Paco Medina

Deadpool has pissed off Norman Osbourn, and as Spidey will soon find out, that’s never a good idea. The consequences, in this case? The New Hawkeye, formerly Bullseye who been sent in to make the Merc with a Mouth eat his words.

The erection continues as they bring back another old favorite conflict from back in the day of Joe Kelly’s run on Deadpool. I’ve been enjoying the hell out of Deadpool lately as it always finds a way to make me laugh just a little bit. This is something to look forward to as the psychopaths have at one another. This is going to be, if nothing else, some serious good times.

 

HOWLING COMMANDOS #1

By Jesse Alexander and John Paul Leon

A young Sgt. Nick Fury and his howling commando parachute into Enemy territory, deep in the heart of Yugoslavia to take on Baron Strucker and his Panzer Max. A quality throw back to those action packed war comics, that should easily equal the Sgt Rock resurgence over at DC.

 

LOCKJAW AND THE PET AVENGERS #1 (of 4)

Written by Chris Eliopoulos. Illustrated by Ig Guara.

Marvel Comics is laughing at you. Every time you buy stuff like this, Marvel laughs at you a little more. They take your money but they do not love you. Stop letting them make things like this!!!

 

NEW MUTANTS #1

start reading here!

Written by Zeb Wells. Illustrated by Diogenes Neves. Covers by Adam Kubert & Alex Ross.

It was inevitable - the return of the original New Mutants! Cannonball, Dani Moonstar, Karma, Magik, Magma, and Sunspot (Wolfsbane being occupied at the moment on another X-Team) must reunite to save the world once more. And you thought DC were the only ones making everything just like it was in the “Good Old Days.” Here's my question, if this is the old New Mutants team, aren't they the Old Mutants? Has Marvel lost its ability to rename things? Dark Mutants? Young Mutants? Mighty Mutants? Disassembled?

 

RIFTWAR #1 (of 5)

By Bryan J.L. Glass and Ryan Stegman

Marvel continues to do a sensational job of importing other literary works into the comic book medium, and appear to have hit yet another home run.

This exciting tale will give fantasy junkies yet another fix, with a promising creative team and engaging story.

 

AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #595

By Joe Kelly and Phil Jimenez

Spidey has decided to take down Norman Osbourne... unfortunately Norman Osborn is now head of all Superheroes, and not just some costumed schmuck in an angry elf suit and a pink hat. Can ol’ Web-head save the Marvel U again, or will he just find himself beaten to a pulp (again). If you’ve been neglecting the thankless life of Peter Parker, now is the time to reacquaint yourself with this story leading up to issue 600.

 

SPIDER-MAN: THE SHORT HALLOWEEN

Written by Bill Hader and Seth Meyers. Illustrated by Kevin Maguire.

Insanely funny (or simply insane) SNL cast members Hader and Meyers join the equally insanely funny Kevin Maguire to bring us a Spider-Man tale of drunken mistake identities. I’m so there.

A Spider-man title that mocks Batman a smidgeon, and has Kevin Maguire on art for a rollicking good time? Sheeeeee-IT I’m there. Two Saturday Night alumni make the comics debut here, and if they can bring that good ole SNL humor and Spidey together, I’m for it. Plus Kevin Maguire’s art is just so much fun.

TROJAN WAR #1 (of 5)

By Roy Thomas and Miguel Sepulveda

The promotional image is action packed and crisp, channelling all of the energy of Zach Snyder’s 300. This is the same creative team that brought you the very strong Illiad adaptation, this time an original accompanying work. It the Trojan war Brad Pitt could only dream of bringing you.

 

ULTIMATUM: SPIDER-MAN REQUIEM BOOK #1 (of 2)

Written by Brian Michael Bendis. Illustrated by Mark Bagley & Stuart Immonen.

In the aftermath of Ultimatum, this two-part story focuses on Spider-Man and the legacy he has left behind. The newly relaunched Ultimate Spider-Man will launch directly out of this one, so make sure you pick it up so you’re ready to go.

I have a tear in my eye as I write this. Oh Ultimate Spidey you did good by me you re solidified my love for comics. Now that that’s over this really isn’t, awesome to see them go out with a bang bringing Bagley back, and that fills me with glee, but do  not fear Ultimate Spidey will be back when they relaunch the Ultimate Line with Ultimate Comics. Sadly though is the end of the road for Immonen and Bagley on USM.

 

X-FACTOR #43

Written by Peter David. Illustrated by Valentine De Landro.

Just in case you haven’t believed us the past few months, this title has been delivering some huge surprises the past few months, building on its track record of consistently excellence. Read this title: you won’t be disappointed!

 

WOLVERINE #73 and #74

By Aaron, Way, Edwards and Kubert

Marvel’s bringing everyone back this month, as Adam Kubert pulls bagley and returns to the book he started on for this 2 issue double feature. That brings you a tale of Wolverines Day off and a second bill of Wolverine doing his best Kurt Russell as he attempts to get out of New York .

 

WOLVERINE ORIGINS # 36

Written by. Daniel Way Illustrated by. Doug Braithwait

Here’s the $4 dollar question: will Daken also get a shiny set of adamantium claws like the old man? I guess this is where we find out. I ‘m curious to see where this is going, because I know Daken seems to be in for the long haul now, and I hope they flesh him out a lot more. Time will tell.

 

SPIDER-MAN NOIR HC

Written by David Hine & Fabrice Sapolsky. Illustrated by Carmine Di Giandomenico.

Marvel is putting a big push behind its new Noir line of books, and the first collection spotlights the one and only Spider-Man. This was an enjoyable series, and worth reading.

 

X-MEN: MANIFEST DESTINY HC

Written by Jason Aaron, Mike Carey & others. Illustrated by Steven Segovia, Michael Ryan, Takeshi Miyazaki, Ben Oliver, and others.

An anthology of stories showcasing how the X-Men are adjusting to their new San Diego digs. The highlight of the bunch is Wolverine's kung-fu Chinatown adventure.
 
     
 
  TOYS & MISC. HIGHLIGHTS
 
 

BACK TO THE FUTURE DELOREAN CAR

Doc Brown’s famous time-traveling DeLorean is represented in all its glory in this 1/18th scale replica.

 

BLUE LANTERN T-SHIRT

Spread hope throughout the galaxy as you show your support for the Blue Lantern corps!

 

BLACK CAT SASSY DELUXE COSTUME

I can think of so many things to say, but I’ll let your imagination run wild. Another in the line of “Sassy” costumes, and what can I say I am a sucker for a half naked girl in tight leather. Sign me up.

 

BLACK LANTERN T-SHIRT

Alternately, show your allegiance to the Black as the dead rise. Do it, or Earth-2 Superman will kick your ass.

 

BLACULA 12 INCH COLLECTOR ACTION FIGURE

It’s the one everyone’s been clamoring for, everyone meaning me. I was very pleasantly surprised to see one of the great icons from the grindhouse/blaxploitation era, given life. I hope they do more of these. A Dolemite would make my head explode. No joke. I would also hope it comes with an army of his sexy ninja assassins. Watch the movie, get the figure. Scream, Blacula, Scream!

 

CAPTAIN AMERICA REPLICA SHIELDS

I know there are a lot of people out there seeking these, and knows your chance to own one. I just want to take a moment and remind everyone that we’re in Canada. Now that that’s over, these shields come in 2 versions: Deluxe and Adult.

 

DESTROYER STATUE

AH Bowen, every month I see what new joys you have to offer and there’s always one that makes me go ooooooo. The destroyer just looks so grand and imposing, his simple design translates pretty damn well. They did a great job here. If your Thor statue is looking lonely, give him a friend.

 

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS 4th EDITION: MONSTER MANUAL 2

After the phenomenal release of the Player’s Handbook 2, which if you don’t own you really should because they did a great job with it, I’m excited to see what new challenges they bring to players with this latest incarnation of the monster manual. The two headed baboon on the cover with the tentacles, yeah, you’re eyes do not deceive you.

 

EMMA FROST SASSY PRESTIGE COSTUME

A name like that leaves little to the imagination, and so does this costume. DAMN. Now you favorite girls of comics can come alive. Frank Cho curves are not included.

 

GHOSTBUSTERS MINIMATES BOX SET #1

The minimate phenomenon continues and this time they knew who to call! This box set includes Venkman, Spengler, Louis Tully and Gozer’s dog, and the possessed Dana Barret. Don’t miss out on these cool 2 inch collectables.

 

GHOSTBUSTERS STAY PUFT MARSHMALLOW MAN BANK

The cute, cuddly herald of doom from the first GHOSTBUSTERS film can now come home with you to guard your spare change. What else do I need to say? It looks awesome. And if you are bored one day and want to totally geek out, you can grab those minimates along with the bank and act out the final scene from the original Ghostbusters movie!

 

HALLOWEEN COSTUMES

Oh and it looks like Cosplay is slowly becoming more acceptable and less deserving of blatant mockery and scorn because Previews is full of superhero costumes. Now you too can dress up as Silk Spectre and Night Owl and recreate your own oafish, middle-aged sex in the comfort of your parent's home! Hell, maybe you can recreate oafish, middle-aged sex while your parents are actually engaging in oafish, middle-ages sex upstairs! They have costumes of all sizes. Or you can have your own, groiny crossover and have Storm Shadow ninjasex Emma Frost. The combinations are endless and disgusting. You do not have the physique to wear spandex. But seriously, any ladies out there who want to wear the Emma Frost costume, call me. I wear glasses like Cyclops. Let's repopulate the mutant race.

 

HELLBOY: B.P.R.D. BUDDIES FIGURES

The fun “Little Buddies” series of figures (there have already been a bunch of great Star Wars and Marvel Super Hero Squad figures) brings you some kick-ass Hellboy figures, from last summer’s HELLBOY II: THE GOLDEN ARMY.

 

JLA TROPHY ROOM: GREEN LANTERN RINGS PROP REPLICA

An ugly ass plastic case filled with ugly ass plastic rings. Is there seriously a Lantern Corps for avarice? Greed Lanterns? Are they nerds who covet variant covers? As an added bonus, the rings aren't even meant to be worn, so you can't cosplay with them.

 

MIGHTY MUGGS D.I.Y. BLANK WHITE FIGURE

Everyone knows Mighty Muggs are super cool, and now you can create your very own! Maybe your favourite character hasn’t gotten the Mighty Muggs treatment, or perhaps you think you can simply design a better version. Either way, now’s your chance to show the world what you’ve got with your mad design skills!

 

SPIDER-MAN ADULT DELUXE COSTUMES

So many solicits this month for costumes, but it’s the early bird gets the worm for Halloween right, so be prepared. It’s hard to find a good looking spidey costume so this is quite awesome because it actually looks good. Weather you have the physical definition to pull It off is something completely different. I think I’ll get one of these just to wear under my work clothes. One can only dream right, or I guess be judged by his peers.

 

STAR TREK CARTOON T-SHIRTS

These two T-shirts featuring stylized cartoon versions of the classic Trek characters look really fun. You can wear Kirk saying “You ... off my ship!” or the dangerous “Bring on the Gorn!”.

STREET FIGHTER: KEN MASTERS ¼ SCALE STATUE

It’s always cool to see new street fighter stuff, especially when it looks good. I know how die hard the fans can get and here’s a favorite perfectly captured ion a pretty large scale. If you’re a Ken guy here’s the ultimate statue. Shame it comes with no dragon punching action.

 

THOR HAMMER REPLICA

For those not wanting to shell out $500 for an aluminum (WTF!?!) replica they’ve been soliciting recently, here is your more affordable substitute. Simple and you won’t kill someone when you bop them on the head with it in a fit of Asgardian rage.

 

UGLYDOLLS ACTION FIGURE COLLECTION

 

Add a little Ugly to your life as toy designer’s Horvath & Sun-Min Kim’s acclaimed Uglydolls arrive in a new form (no longer huggable and plush-like) as 3 inch tall figures. Collect them all: Babo, Jeero, Ice-bat, Wedgehead, Ox (available in two colors) and a ‘rare-chase-limited’ figure, Red tooth wedgehead. All packaged identically to annoy and excite you with every purchase!

 

WOMEN OF THE E DCU T-SHIRT

Remember those full page house ads in most of DC’s comics running last year that featured gorgeous Adam Hughes art depicting the ladies of the DCU in beautiful evening wear? Well, now you can wear that piece of art as Graphitti designs unleashes the Women of the DCU as only Hughes can draw them.

It’s a T-shirt of Adam Hughes drawing the women of DC in sexy white dresses. I think that just sold itself.

 

WATCHMEN BE@RBRICKS 3-PACK SET A

From Medicom Toy Corporation. Who Watches the Watchmen? Everyone does when they see this Be@rbrick set featuring The Comedian, Nite Owl and Ozymandias. SET A               SET B

WATCHMEN BE@RBRICKS 3-PACK SET B

From Medicom Toy Corporation. These Be@rbrick versions of Rorschach, Dr. Manhattan and Silk Spectre make the streets "unbearable" for criminals and delightful for comic fans.  (NOTE: Set contains 1 figure each of Dr. Manhattan, Rorschach & Silk Spectre.)

 

WATCHMEN KUBRICKS 3-PACK SET A

From Medicom Toy Corporation. The Comedian, Nite Owl and Ozymandias guard the world as a set of collectible Kubricks.  (NOTE: Set contains 1 figure each of the Comedian, Nite Owl & Ozymandias.)

SET A              SET B

WATCHMEN KUBRICKS 3-PACK SET B

From Medicom Toy Corporation. Rorschach, Dr. Manhattan and Silk Spectre make a big impression in this cool set of little Kubricks. (NOTE: Set contains 1 figure each of Dr. Manhattan, Rorschach & Silk Spectre.)

 

 
 

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