Brett Monro Comic Reviews

One of the challenges of doing a Vietnam War tale, is that so many stories have already been told about this period of history that it can be hard to find a new angle from which to attack a series. The zombies add a great hook to a book that doesnt necessarily focus on zombies, but on the characters in the Vietnam War.

Bad Medicine is an engaging read, but I feel like the first arc was over too fast. It definitely felt like they could have spent a bit more time expanding the mystery than they did. It seems very sudden when the story is over, ending off with a couple of pages of set-up for the next arc. I would have been happier to see the set-up built into the story a bit better. Overall though, a well thought out book that certainly has enough action to keep the casual reader involved. Over time, with a little work, I could see this being a top-notch series.

Even if I wasnt sold on the story after reading the majority of this comic (which I was), the ending of the issue was more than enough to make me a fanboy. Its a fun concept, with interesting characters and a huge universe to grow into. The sky is the limit based on Betrothed #1 and I hope they keep pushing their boundaries and continue giving us a great comic story. Betrothed #1 is an excellent read, and I definitely recommend it for fans of Saga, which is pretty high praise indeed.

The thing I appreciated the most about this book is that it completely drew me in. By showing us only Bloodshot's POV Lemire has created such tension that it brings more excitement to the table than showing us everything. On the surface its easy to call a book like this a gimmick but I would suggest that as an artistic choice its very brave. Its an inventive take on an old concept and it serves the story well. Plus I never expected to see two-page spreads in a pitch black comic, but they work very well here. Certainly worth a look as a departure from the norm, and highly recommended.

Brilliant Trash has a lot going on, and that makes for a good read. This issue was a quick read, but that didnt make me feel like I was being short changed on content, more that it was a well-paced and efficiently told story.

If putting a comic together is like building a puzzle, then this comic is one of the most finely crafted available today. My only issue with this book is that now I have to go back and find all the back-issues. Great work, and highly recommended.

My biggest problem is the style of the book. Was it originally designed to be a comic or was it a screenplay that wasnt picked up? While the comic medium allows for all types of stories to be told, this one just seems to lack comic-y elements. It is an enjoyable series with a solid hook, but it also seems like a story that will be much better as a trade-paperback as opposed to a monthly read. If you like The Activity, and enjoy action genre comics, then I definitely recommend giving this one a shot; if you like super-heroes, then look elsewhere.

If you enjoy the type of story that they are telling, then you might want to look into picking it up. It is competent story-telling that doesnt take chances. Ultimately, I would suggest waiting for the trade paperback to come out, and then hoping to get it at a discount. Maybe it will include some extra pages that will help connect some of the dots within the story.

Edison Rex is the type of book I expect Alan Moore to write, save that it isnt overly pretentious. The perfect blend of the old and the new, without being over-written, and too wink-wink as long as you have read comics for decades you will understand this. This series is great fun, and I love the concept of a criminal genius protecting the earth. Well worth the look, especially for a mere 99 cents.

Armed Forces #0 is a perfect introduction to the world of the Elephantmen. I didnt know what to expect out of this series, whether it would be another action-adventure throwaway or not, but this is a perfect example of someone who knows comic books inside and out, doing something that means a great deal to them. This is a book that I am happy to recommend to everyone. I hope the story of the Elephantmen is continued to be heard, no matter how much they try and cover their ears

Make no doubt though, Frank is a well told story with art that perfectly suits the book. As a character piece the effort is amazing, and it really makes me look forward to what's coming next from Ben Rankel. I can honestly say that while it took some time to get Frank to the shelves, it was well worth it. I certainly hope everyone who's interested in good characters takes the time to read Frank, because success couldnt happen to a nicer guy.

I have always liked the Modern Prometheus (part of which is included at the back of the comic), and consider Frankenstein one of the great monsters of all-time. This book is a worthy addition to the legacy, with strong writing and fantastic art. My only concern is how they will tread the line between new and old. They have thirteen issues to stay true to the core of the character, while still placing him in new, fitting situations. A very good start…

The action is intense and the art is very good. All in all a tight, well told comic.

Once again G.I. Joe A Real American Hero has proven why it stands the test of time. Absolutely incredible, and definitely highly, highly recommended.

Have the kind of fun that only a vs. comic can provide, and pick G.I. Joe vs. Six Million Dollar Man #1 up.

If the main goal of this series is to pique my interest in the second movie, then it has succeeded. I found the book to feature much of the same heart that I felt the original comics had, and didn't try and stretch the story too far from its roots. I look forward to the final issue, and hope the destination is as good as the journey.

This comic isnt just Godzilla; there are other giant monsters in tow as well. The fun has been brought in this book, and I hope that it keeps up. This is a very interesting beginning to a comic that could have been much less; as long as they carry on this path, then they will keep me as a reader. For now, I will have to just sit back in my giant-monster-proof tower and wait for the skreeeee-onnnnnk signaling the arrival of the next issueor perhaps my doom. Gojira!

I liked this issue a lot, but there isn't any singular moment I can point to explaining why. It's good and I'm pretty sure things are being set up for a satisfying story, but there isn't a masterful action sequence or witty exchange of dialog that has me “champing at the bit” to get to the next issue. Should it make your pull list? It's making mine, but I have a very long pull list. I guess it really depends upon how much you care about the legacy of the Green Hornet.

Grim Leaper is a rare book that can touch on so many points, but still make it seem like they belong together. You truly never know what to expect next, and that is a really good thing for this book. There is a level of dark humor that seems missing in other comics of this ilk. At the end of the day, an easy read that begs to be enjoyed again and again. Its name is Grim Leaper, and I think Im in love.

Hardcore is a really engaging sci-fi, action story. Even though the book tends toward the predictable, the twist at the end is excellent, and really drives the desire to read the next issue. This is a series that definitely makes me want to finish the story, but I currently dont see how it will live on past the first storyline. I hope the initial arc doesnt get drawn out too much, but overall, an excellent first issue. Recommended.

He-Man and the Masters of the Universe is a much better book then I was anticipating. The story is engaging and different, while the art is adventurous and fun. There is something in here for the long-time He-Man fan, as well as the new reader who knows very little about the Masters of the Universe.

It Girl is a fun read that takes me back to the super-hero comics I enjoyed as a kid, only with a more dynamic main character. I have no trouble recommending this story, and definitely want to continue on the journey with It Girl. Hopefully in later issues we will have the opportunity to explore more of the rich cluster of supporting characters. It Girl and the Atomics may appear to be a throwback, but it is totally 21st century.

The James Bond: M one-shot is a welcome look into the past of a fascinating character that certainly doesnt get as much attention as agent 007 does. There is a lot of history in this book that I believe is well captured by the largely Irish contingent working on it.

One of the things I enjoyed most about this comic was the ability to go through and try and find all the easter eggs hidden within. All the different song-titles that make up plot points in the comic are a blast to find for a fan like me. Both KISS and Army of Darkness have been establishing their universes at Dynamite for a while, but you dont need any of that backstory to appreciate this comic. While nobody is going to suggest this comic is the second coming of Watchmen, it is a very enjoyable read, and if you are a fan of either KISS or Army of Darkness (or both!) then you wont be let down by KISS/Army of Darkness#1. Worth a look.

I originally wasnt very excited about this comic because my biggest memory of Mars Attacks is the movie, which I am not a fan of. I like the fact that this is a reboot of sorts, owing no allegiance to anything other than a 50 year old concept. It is a very easy read and is a lot of fun. Mars Attacks is another great example of a top-notch popcorn comic book.

Matt Kindt explains at the end, that he wants people to enjoy reading this comic monthly. Mind MGMT has added material that wont appear in the trade paperback to attempt to lure readers in on a regular basis; I am caught, hook, line and sinker. The bonus story alone is fantastic, and all of the secret messages hidden within the book are just the icing on top. This is one of the primary reasons that I read comics, for the opportunity to find books this good. The only thing left is to visit my local store and make sure they are putting Mind MGMT away for me… Ultra-mega highly recommended.

When I went in to read this comic, I certainly wasnt expecting the story I got, and in this case, that is probably a good thing. I really enjoyed the way the characters story was told, and how it related to Ninjak. And even more, I liked the fact that you could easily read this without being up to date on the Ninjak continuity. At the end of the comic you had not only read a really interesting story, but you had the cliffhanger ending that sets up the desire to read the next issue perfectly.

This is a setup issue, which gives a clue to what we can expect in later issues of the series. Overall though, if it is a fun read that you are looking for, with a bunch of recognizable comic faces, then this book is for you. I hope this crossover continues to build off the first issue and gives us some solid action to go with its popcorn story.

This seriously creepy feeling serves the story well and draws you in, though I won't spoil it for you here. Just so you don't think this is a perfect book, a criticism would be the dialog. It doesn't quite hit home, but it's far from a deal-breaker. A highlight of my week, and I'm looking forward to more (I've looked ahead and things are going to get real wild, real soon).

Punks Not Dead is inventive, brash, and if youre ready for it then its a hell of a trip.

For fans of Peter Bagge, this will be a great moment, another chance to enjoy the work of a true master of underground comics. For those who dont enjoy his work, then this will be more of the same to them. I, am of the former, and cant wait to get my noodle-armed hands on issue two.

This special edition is chock full of interesting extras, such as script to art pages and an interview with Guy Dorian Sr. and Sal Buscema. I found that comparing the script to the pencilled pages to be very informative and the interview was fantastic. I always loved Rom back when he was with Marvel, so whenever I get a chance to see Rom look a little bit more classic, Im always a fan. This book reads well and works nicely to add character to IDWs Rom universe. This is a really nice package as a whole, and even if you have the original Rom issues with this as a back up story, I would still recommend grabbing this issue to read the combined story and get all those tasty extras.

The cover alone would make me want to give this book a try, as it is extremely evocative and attention-grabbing. What I really like about this book is the gritty nature of the characters, and the scenarios in which they have been placed. There is a lot being developed in this series, and Hickman has definitely proven that he can deliver.

Im a big fan of giant unexplainable ridiculous monsters terrorizing humanity. Sharkasaurus is a perfect fit with that genre and Spencer delivers the goods with the ending. While by no means high art this book is a very engaging read that should absolutely appeal to the viewers of the many shark themed movies out there. I think its awesome seeing b-movie comics and personally would like to see more of them produced. A fun concept that is worth the read.

If you have any interest in Star Trek Discovery, then I absolutely recommend this book.

I absolutely hate speaking negatively about a book that has such positive messages. Self assurance, creativity and cooperation are all prominent themes in this comic and it is communicated effectively. Unfortunately, it's missing any sort of danger (boring).

Larsen is taking over full creative on this title beginning with issue 64, so hopefully he can clean up the mess begun with Moores old script and bring the same artistic sense that has kept Savage Dragon around for so long. It is possible, had I read the Moore run leading up to this issue that I would have liked the book more, but as a jump on point, it is almost incomprehensible. A less than auspicious beginning to a book with such a pedigree.

I enjoyed the story, but wonder if the dialogue problems will be too much for me in the long run. The art style is effective and action-packed, leaving this one as a solid pick-up by fans of the original Turtles run by Eastman and Laird.

The Archies #7 is poignant, funny, sad and wonderful all at the same time. I definitely have expectations of quality when I pick up an Archie title, but this one went above and beyond for me. It helped me see the characters in a new light and care about them once again, but in a different way than I was used to. Besides the cameos and the rock and roll, if you like good characters, then this is a comic you should be looking at. I look forward to seeing what's next. Highly recommended.

Highly recommended, for mature readers.

It must be hard to come up with such a broad and interesting world while containing it to one house, even if that happens to be a very large house. With so many different story directions possible, as well as characters to explore, the idea of being able to follow along monthly excites me. If you're a fan of “The Unwritten” or of Fantasy/Magic stories then I think this is a book that you will absolutely enjoy. Its certainly well worth the price for something this beautiful and it comes highly recommended.

The Massive is an excellent start to what looks to be a very worthy successor to DMZ and some of Brian Woods other creator-owned work. The story being told here is, like the title suggests, massive and I look forward to exploring the environmental question throughout the run of this series. It is exciting to read a book as good as The Massive, and I take great enjoyment out of being there from the beginning.

The Pound Ghouls Night Out surprised me in how complete a comic book it is. Rarely have I read characters as engaging as these, and married with a well-paced art style, it makes for an amazing read. If they do another Kickstarter for future volumes of this title, then count me in.

I think it is really important to give The Remains a couple of reads. While I was reading issue four, I found myself racing through the final pages almost at the expense of the art, but the benefit of this was that when I reached the twist at the end, I enjoyed the reveal that much more as I didn't really see it coming. Afterwards, I spent time going back and truly looking at the art and got a chance to enjoy the wonderful blend of writing and art. The Remains is an excellent read that takes you on an emotional journey through the lives of two young girls. In Cullen Bunn's world, life may go on, but the memory remains. Highly recommended.

If you like swearing, blood, and a lack of originality (and swearing, did I mention swearing?), then this is the book for you. For those who want a darker themed super-hero take, you might as well go and pick up a copy of Kick-Ass. Despite the occasional attempt to take this book somewhere, there is just not enough real substance to go along with the style.

Think Tank is a very good story with engaging characters. Hawkins has gone out of his way to make the characters real, and not cartoony, and it makes for a quality book. I appreciate that at the end of the book, Hawkins explains some of his thoughts, and the process of putting the book together. If you like interesting stories, and intelligent use of science-fact, then I highly recommend this book.

I am a huge fan of John Byrne, but this book feels very dated to me. There is plenty to like within the book, but so much of it seems like a rehash of older work, that I really struggled to get into it. The lack of character development also impacted my ability to care; Im all for starting out of the gate fast, but without something to latch onto, the book suffers. Perhaps it is a slow-burn book that will get better in the future, but for now…