Sam Hawkins Comic Reviews

Overall this was a disappointing read. As someone excited to seeing John Ostrander reunite the Others, against a foe with close ties to Vostok, this issue failed to deliver the story I expected. What follows rather is a fairly uninspired storyline, which rushes to a sudden conclusion to get things wrapped up. And that never is a sign of a great comic, yet alone story.

Aquaman #23.2 Ocean Master is another decent offering from DC's Villains Month. Offering the reader, new or old, a look into Orm's worldview and what motivates him, this served as a good issue setting up his feature appearances in the DC Universe. I'm certainly looking forward to his return to Atlantis, following the collapse of Arthur's rule under the challenge of the Dead King.

If you have been following Aquaman, or have read Forever Evil #1and the solicitations, then you have basically read this issue already. The real strength of this comic comes from the ending, which effectively sets up the direction for Black Manta in Forever Evil following the death of Aquaman, with the villain finding himself a new mission to pursue. If you have read the main event however, then there honestly is no real need to pick this up, as by not picking up this issue, you aren't missing anything out.

Aquaman #23is an interesting issue. Full of action, there is a lot going on as the chaos encircles Aquaman and brings him to his knees. Whilst all the threads aren't quite woven together this issue, the ending certainly sets up an exciting next storyline following Villains Month, with a lot of questions be left to be answered in the following months.

Aquaman #24is a great read, as ever with this title. Whilst this issue doesn't do anything truly unexpected, it does do a nice job of firmly outlining the situation, whilst re-establishing the story's momentum. Just what was needed too, considering next month is the climatic, bumper-sized conclusion to not just "Death of a King," but of Geoff Johns' run on Aquaman!

As a finale to Geoff Johns on Aquaman, this is a really strong issue. It superbly marks the end of his tenure on the title, wrapping up all the little plots which were in play over the last couple of years, whilst firmly laying down the foundations for the next writer to work from.

The writer may have changed, but Aquaman definitely remains a title that you should be picking up.

Aquaman #27is another strong issue for the series. Whilst the main battle unfolds as expected, there's plenty to be enjoyed this issue, with Parker's story nicely developing the other plot threads to hold your interest. And that's a good thing too, since next issue Aquaman looks set to meet those pesky scientists"

This is another decent issue of Aquaman. Following the somewhat action-packed previous issues, #28 nicely serves to allow both readers and Aquaman to catch their breath again, whilst other threats linger in the distance. And by distance, I mean that next issue will see Aquaman faced with a challenge of the Gods. Fun times?

This is yet another enjoyable issue of Aquman. Whilst it may be a tad too action-packed for the liking of some, casting aside any real room for character or the bigger story development, seeing Arthur go toe-to-toe with the stuff of legends was highly enjoyable.

This is another decent issue of Aquaman. Whilst the battle between Aquaman and Hercules may have somewhat overshadowed other aspects of the story, this still is an entertaining read which does a good job of setting up the next Aquaman Annual. Let's just hope it isn't as irrelevant as the last one.

This is a classic example of a real catch-22 situation. If DC hadn't finished off "This Blood is Thick," fans would be disappointed that things ended on such a cliffhanger. However, by handing the assignment to Andreyko and publishing the annual months later, fans instead got a competent issue which merely acted to tie up loose ends. Hardly the epic conclusion many desired.

This is another strong issue of Batwoman, nicely acting as an interlude before the main event begins next issue. For readers there is a bit of everything; further development of Maggie and Kate's relationship, more badassery from Bette, and the wonderful visuals associated with this title. Make sure you pick up next issue, as things look set to get wild"

This is a real bittersweet issue. As a single issue of Batwoman, this is another strong issue, which neatly manages the two ongoing storylines, whilst bringing the start of the epic brawl between Batwoman and Batman which we all wanted to see. Knowing that this is the final issue of Williams and Blackman however, and knowing that this story has been cut off almost mid-scene is unforgiveable on DC's part however, meaning that such a great creative run comes to such a disappointing end, all things considered.

Saying this however, this issue was a lot better than the uninspired offering of Green Lantern Corps, which came complete with the most pointless Batman cameo.

This is another enjoyable issue of Batwoman. Whilst some may be put off by the move away from the Wolf Spider storyline, the focus on Kate and Maggie this issue felt natural and deserved. I'm definitely curious as to just where Kate will go from here.

Here's to hoping next issue shakes things up a bit.

Jeremy Haun returns to solely providing the pencils this issue, and things are better for it. With the artwork more consistent throughout this issue, Haun's artwork really gets a chance to shine with the story being packed with plenty of action. The opening fight in Arkham Asylum is wonderfully illustrated, with Haun's pencils both capturing the chaotic nature of the fight, whilst showing Batwoman to be effortlessly moving from opponent to opponent and subduing them. Add to that some nice facial expressions, such as Batwoman's smug smile in some panels, and this is one fine looking comic.

Overall, this annual is a fun read. An accessible stand-alone story, Acker and Blacker also fill in a gap regarding Deadpool's fragmented mind, whilst also providing a lot of laughs. After reading this, I definitely hope that Wade and Madcap cross paths again soon.

Overall, this annual is a fun read. An accessible stand-alone story, Acker and Blacker also fill in a gap regarding Deadpool's fragmented mind, whilst also providing a lot of laughs. After reading this, I definitely hope that Wade and Madcap cross paths again soon.

Far from being a forgettable read, this annual is a lot of fun. Deadpool and Spider-Man always have a great dynamic, and this story really plays upon that to great effect. However the predictable nature of the story does mean this will hardly be remembered as a classic, but hey, this is Deadpool. This is supposed to just be a bit of fun, right?

Overall this is a strong start to a new story-arc on Deadpool. The individual targeting Deadpool has certainly piqued my curiosity, and it's good to see that this creative team don't just have a grasp on the funny side of Deadpool; but they can handle the emotionally damaged side too. Poor Deadpool"

Deadpool #16is a very intriguing issue. Butler's horrific schemes are outlined to the reader, whilst the true scope of his operations and motives are still not quite fully revealed. More importantly, it seems that Deadpool's entire life looks set to be turned upside down. Or is it all just Butler's manipulation? If all this uncertainty isn't enough to get you excited for next issue, then I don't know what is.

Deadpool #17is yet another strong issue for this series. I'm loving this current storyline, which is really showing that Duggan and Posehn don't just tell some great jokes " but they can tell some darn good stories too. With two parts of this story to come, I'm interested in seeing just what they have in store for us next. Because if it's anything like we've seen so far, then it could be truly terrifying "

I'm really not sure what to say about this issue. I've been loving this story-arc so far, with it clearly showing that the Posehn and Duggan are not simply on Deadpool to write funny moments. Indeed, they have taken some really bold moves in this story-arc, and I really cannot wait to see what the future has in store for Deadpool now. Because it certainly doesn't look pretty.

I look forward to seeing where the pair plan on taking the 'ol Merc with the Mouth next, considering his seemingly new outlook following this storyline.

This is a very strong start to the epically named new storyline, "Deadpool vs. S.H.I.E.L.D." Whilst it may not be Wade on the front foot and taking the fight to Agent Gorman as expected, this is a fun-filled start to the new story-arc. And you just know that by the end, Deadpool will have the last laugh over Gorman.

Deadpool #25.NOW is both a disappointing ending to "Deadpool vs S.H.I.E.L.D.," whilst also being a fairly poor jumping on point. Where it does fail in terms of depth or accessibility however, it does provide plenty of laughs as Deadpool and Crossbones' battle escalates out of hand. And at the very least, it does draw a line under the current phase of Deadpool's life.

This is a truly great issue of Deadpool. This truly is an issue that is what it is " pure insane fun. I can think of no better advert for Gerry Duggan and Brian Posehn's run on Deadpool, which makes it all the more bizarre that this wasn't chosen as the .NOW issue.

Whilst it may not be a ground breaking piece of work, or anything truly exceptional, Deadpool #27is a nice celebration of Deadpool as a character, whilst setting up an intriguing new chapter in his life. And rest assured, things will undoubtedly go wrong spectacularly for Wade very soon. It always does, after all.

Deadpool #28is a missed opportunity. With the issue offering to take readers on Deadpool's crazy honeymoon, there was the chance for this issue to explore Deadpool's marriage, whilst taking readers on a memorable adventure. Sadly this issue fails to do either of those, instead offering a somewhat formulaic "escalation" story instead. Ah well.

This is a fairly disappointing ending to a two-parter which has been below the usual standards of this title. With the set-up of the last issue of Celeritas, it looked like we were to be treated to something really exciting. However, instead we were shown a rather average story, which served no real purpose than to remove the team from the timestream temporarily, and to show the declining powers of the team. Saying that however, there was enough in this issue to make it entertaining enough.

The next issue can't arrive soon enough.

I'm definitely excited to seeing where Matt Fraction and Karl Kesel are going to take us with the next few issues of this insane storyline. Whatever happens, it promises to be one heck of a ride.

Still, it could have been much worse, and at least the Fantastic Four are back, and ready for the next phase " All-New Marvel NOW! Time for a jazzy costume change?

This is a good introductory issue to the Fantastic Four for new and old readers alike, although it does lack a certain pull due to being the establishing issue. However with Robinson's vision of the team outlined, next issue will be sure to see all hell let loose, as the "Fall of the Fantastic Four" begins proper. Invasions from alternate dimensions are rarely a good sign after all.

This is an enjoyable issue of Fantastic Four. Whilst the story may seem a bit generic, Robinson's scripting does a good job of starting off the "Fall of the Fantastic Four" proper, and I can't wait to see where they go next.

This is a really enjoyable issue of Fantastic Four. From #1 James Robinson promised that the team would face some troubling times, and this issue has really ramped up the drama and tension as the Fantastic Four's world begins to really crumble around them.

Whilst this comic is not full of the fun-filled madness which I anticipated, this still was an enjoyable issue. With the Future Foundation expanding, it looks like the gang have more interesting ventures ahead. However, Julius Caesar and Maximus the Mad hanging around together just seems to spell trouble for some reason"

FF #12is another enjoyable issue for this series. The playful insanity which has been prevalent in this comic since #1 is still present despite the creative change behind the scenes, whilst there also are clear signs of the bigger picture starting to shape up. Where it's all going? Who knows? But it looks like it'll be really fun.

This isn't a bad issue of FF, but it feels somewhat lacking. Considering the big character developments for both Alex Power and Ant-Man, you really would expect more from this issue than a few pages addressing their predicaments. Saying that however, the rest of this comic still is fun to read, if somewhat irrelevant to the overall picture which both this title and Fantastic Four are edging ever nearer too"

After a few issues in the wilderness, FF is firmly back on track. With a clearly defined direction once more, it's time for the team to take the fight to Doctor Doom, attempting to do what Reed Richards and the original Fantastic Four couldn't " take Doom down a notch or two. I have no idea how Scott Lang proposes to do this, but all I can say is that I'm terribly excited to see just what happens next.

FF #15 is a really enjoyable read. The long-awaited battle against Doctor Doom is finally here, and this issue delivers the action, humour and entertainment that everyone has come to expect from FF. I can only hope that next issue serves to wonderfully wrap up what has been one of Marvel's most zany and enjoyable titles since the launch of Marvel NOW.

This served to be a fine finale for FF. Whilst the lack of focus on the children of the Future Foundation was a bit disappointing, the much-anticipated confrontation between Ant-Man and Doctor Doom was every bit as satisfying as expected. Unlike with Fantastic Four, this title has managed to regain its early momentum following Fraction's departure, and will long be remembered as being a silly and fun comic book.

Overall this is a very strong issue, providing insight into Count Vertigo's motivations and tragic past, setting him up to be a threatening villain for Green Arrow. Rather than feeling out of place on in the Green Arrow series, this instead is a very relevant issue, contributing nicely to the current story which Lemire and Sorrentino are crafting on Green Arrow. If you aren't sold on Count Vertigo as being a serious villain, then this issue could finally convince you that he isn't a joke of a character.

Green Arrow #24is another great issue for this series. Jeff Lemire and Andrea Sorrentino have taken a flagging title and given it direction and meaning once more. Whilst this issue is somewhat simplistic story-wise, it really works, bringing an end to this story-arc, whilst establishing what's to come in future issues. I only hope that next month's "Zero Year" tie-in doesn't interrupt the momentum which this title has built up so far"

All things considered, this is a fairly average issue. "Zero Year" does nothing to excite Green Arrow readers, and if anything distracts from Lemire's current story, and I'm sure Batman readers are unlikely to pick this title off based off this issue. Despite this however, there is enough here to entertain the reader, whilst Lemire does tease about the island a bit more, which should be enough to keep most readers interested. Especially considering next month is the start of "The Outsiders War!"

This is yet another strong issue of Green Arrow, getting the "Outsiders War" off to a very good sense. With there being a real sense of awe and mystery throughout the issue " alongside the notion of self-discovery " there's plenty to be enjoyed this issue. Personally, I'm excited to seeing just what the Outsiders do next. Oh, and meeting the lovely Shield clan.

This is another strong issue of Green Arrow. Whilst the story may slow down a little bit, there's plenty to be enjoyed this issue. Not to mention that killer ending"

Green Arrow #30 will shock readers all over again. "The Outsiders War" seems to be going from strength to strength, as does Lemire and Sorrentino's work on Green Arrow. Next issue can't land soon enough, as nothing will ever be the same"

Oh, and it sets up the next storyline superbly.

This is a decent annual for New Guardians. Sure, the ending is somewhat confused, and Oblivion lacks the focus which his previous incarnation possessed, but there's a lot to enjoy here. Justin Jordan gives readers a glimpse of what Kyle Rayner experienced beyond the Source Wall " and does more than enough to intrigue you with it. I certainly want to know what has been broken, anyway.

This is a really strong issue of Green Lantern: New Guardians, which left me shocked by the final page. We have been teased by threats to the Lantern Corps before, but never like this. Jordan has established Relic to truly be a terrifying foe, and I'm genuinely excited to see just what he does next.

Overall, this another strong issue of Green Lantern: New Guardians. Jordan does a great job of both progressing the "Lights Out" storyline, whilst also continuing to make this a book about Kyle Rayner's new role as the White Lantern. One thing does seem certain however: the chaos surrounding the Green Lantern Corps won't end following the conclusion of "Lights Out"!

It may take a little while to get going, but this is definitely a good start to life post-"Lights Out" for Green Lantern: New Guardians. The new direction of Kyle Rayner, Carol Ferris and the Guardians following the struggle against Relic makes sense, and the mystery of Exuras is certainly an intriguing story to open with.

All things considered, this is a fairly decent issue of Green Lantern: New Guardians. This issue looks great, and has a strong ending which will be enough to keep even the most casual of reader interested. It's just a shame that the story missed so many interesting opportunities, and instead played it safe telling a fairly generic story.

This was another decent issue of Green Lantern: New Guardians. Kyle and Carol's relationship progressed a little bit, and overall, the reappearance of Exeter was entertaining. Howeve,r there still is a sense of this title rather going through the motions at the moment, trying to find its place following "Lights Out." Here's the hoping the next storyline has a little more weight.

Overall this is a decent issue, if somewhat forgettable. Jordan nicely sets up the clash between the Godkillers and the God of the Light and the Fire " with Kyle, Carol and the new Guardians set to be caught right in the middle of it. Hopefully the next issue will deliver something notable to really spark some fresh life into this title.

This is another fairly average issue of New Guardians. Whilst this comic doesn't do anything wrong, there isn't an awful lot to be excited about this issue, with most of the pages being dedicated to fleshing out both X'Hal and Godkillers. Now that's all been done though, it looks like we're set for a cataclysmic showdown next issue " with Kyle, Carol and the new Guardians caught in the middle of it!

This is a decent issue of New Guardians. After a few months of build-up, we finally have asked the question " just what has become? It's a shame that it has taken this long to get to this point, but it looks like New Guardians is about to find some momentum again.

This issue is basically the clichd superhero greeting brawl, but with enough teasing moments to keep you interested. Angela is still largely unknown, whilst the appearances of both Thanos and the Watcher should be more than enough to intrigue anyone. Roll on next issue (and hopefully some answers about Angela?).

Overall, this is a fairly solid tie-in to "Infinity." Despite being a slow-burner and feeling somewhat uninspired compared to the previous seven issues of the series, this issue ends with one heck of a bang, instantly reigniting your interest. I'm certainly excited to seeing what happens next issue.

#9 is a solid enough issue for Guardians of the Galaxy, whilst not doing anything spectacular. I can't help but feel that story-wise, these two issues have gone through the motions somewhat, which is disappointing considering how great both this title and Infinity have been. The artwork, however, more than makes up for what is lacking in the story this issue though.

This isn't the best issue of Guardians of the Galaxy in terms of story, but it certainly is an entertaining read. Whilst obviously a stop-gap issue until All-New Marvel NOW launches, this issue does a great job of showcasing Gamora and Angela, whilst managing to add to the mystery surrounding the warrior angel.

If you don't like paying for back-ups, this issue will hardly change your mind about them therefore.

I'm honestly taken aback just how much I enjoyed this issue. After seeing a lot of hype about it around the web, I expected this to not quite live up to the live praise being lavished upon it. However Moon Knight #1 somehow delivers and then some, offering a neat done-in-one issue to captivate the reader, whilst teasing bigger and more insane things to come. Everyone should give this a try, as it is just a great comic book all round.

This is another solid issue of Moon Knight. This series has gotten off to a great start, with Ellis and Shalvey demonstrating that they have more than enough to make this title jump to the top of your pull list each month. With Moon Knight, it's clear that you should never know what to expect " other than to expect something truly entertaining.

New Avengers #9 is a yet another very strong issue for the series. I'd hesitate to call it a tie-in to Infinity, such is the nature of the storyline. Instead, this is rather a separate branch of the event, showing the effects of Thanos and the absence of the Avengers on the secret world of the Illuminati. Next issue can't arrive soon enough.

This is another very strong issue for New Avengers. Another fine example of good comic books not needing cataclysmic battles to make the comic a real page turner, this issue serves well to set up the next few months of stories in both this title and Infinity. Thanos has arrived, the incursions continue to threat Earth, and the Illuminati stand divided and compromised. Whatever happens next, you don't want to miss it"

New Avengers #11is yet another strong issue for this title. Superbly balancing three seemingly quite separate storylines is alone admirable, but making them cleverly interlink and up the stakes is something which deserves great applause. And with just one more issue of New Avengers left directly tying into "Infinity," I really cannot wait to see what Hickman has in store for us. Because if it's anything like the previous few issues, then we are in for one hell of a treat. I doubt the Illuminati would agree with that however"

This is another really strong issue of New Avengers. Picking up the pieces following Infinity, Hickman manages to get the ball rolling effortlessly once again, with the Illuminati's problems seemingly only just beginning. And when you consider the scale of the challenges they have faced so far, that really is saying something.

Overall this is a good issue for New Avengers. The story is still moving along nicely following the events of Infinity, whilst there was a nice little nod to Inhumanity with the visiting of Earth-23099. It looks like things are about to get a whole lot worse for the Illuminati " and that should make great reading for us!

This is another solid issue of New Avengers. Whilst the look at the alternate Earth and the Mapmakers may have felt overly familiar thanks to Hickman doing pretty much the same last issue, following Doctor Strange's descent makes for an entertaining read. There's a real sense of there being no telling what will happen next, with the Sorcerer Supreme starting to dabble with forces even he doesn't fully understand. Fun times all round then.

Superman Unchained #3 is another fine issue of this series. Some may be disappointed by the break in the action midway during this book as we discover, along with Superman, some initial details about his rival, but overall, these teasing little bits of information were much needed.

Overall, this is another solid issue of Superman Unchained. All four differing storylines progress along that little bit more, with more questions posed, as the mystery deepens. The biggest one, as teased in the first issue, is still dangling, tantalising above the rest. Just what is Lex Luthor planning?

This is a great issue of Superman Unchained. The plot has been significantly moved forward with Ascension finally making their move, whilst the Superman/Wraith relationship continues to intrigue. The flashback sequences were surprisingly captivating too, considering that they cover the well explored ground of Clark first discovering his powers.

This is another solid issue of Superman Unchained. Whilst certain aspects of the story may leave some things to be desired, there's still a lot to enjoy and appreciate this issue. Especially after that awesome epilogue.