Pick of the Week (PotW):
Immortal Hulk #12 continues to be consistent with portraying the super hero genre through a horror lens. A supernatural layer is added to Bruce and the Hulk’s previously science-based origins. The fleshing out of Brian and Bruce’s relationship (as well of the subtle birth of the Hulk) helped in building up suspense and enhancing the overall tension. The One-Below-All was also woven into the overall tapestry in a way that was both chilling and intriguing. This vision of Hell as a desolate wasteland (IMO) is more frightening that usual hellish imagery (satyr-like demons with tridents and soul languishing in the fire). The last panel is nightmare-inducing. The next television/film iteration of the Hulk should follow this interpretation but it MUST be directed by a true master of horror/suspense (M. NIGHT, STAY FAR AWAY).
Coulda Been A Contender (For PotW):
Fantastic Four#6/Fantastic Four #6 – Director’s Cut introduced the Herald of Doom, Victorious. It seems like Doom is continuing his flirtation with heroics but on his own vain terms and I for one am glad that he didn’t just get a haste reset to his default state. I wonder what will come from this encounter with the Devourer of Worlds and what are Victor’s overall plans. I am baffled why Latveria isn’t equally advanced as other nations such Wakanda because the citizens seem to be trapped in the early 1900’s. I enjoyed the glimpses of the script and concept art because it gave a clear impression the work involved to produce this issue.
Hawkman #8 finally revealed Carter’s Kryptonian life, Catar-Ol, and his connection to the famous House of El. They had some real touching moments like the scene where Carter told Catar what became of his former student, Kara Zor-El. Part of me wished that DC took some time to do expanded stories on Carter’s past lives because the glimpses have been so interesting and filled me with a desire to learn more about these other lives.
Worthy Mentions:
Justice League #16 continues to be an enjoyable slow burn and I wonder what the ramifications of Hawkgirl remembering her past lives will mean for her relationship with Katar in the future.
The Wild Storm #19 remixed the War between Khera and Daemon in addition to their roles/involvement in human society.
Uncanny X-Men Annual #1 revealed the interesting way in which Scott returned and I am still not fully convinced that Yung Cable is truly a younger version of good ole Nate.
Guardians of the Galaxy #1 finally revealed the true new roster and I am glad that Groot can still express himself in a normal way. The Hela component is interesting and I wonder how it will play out. I also wonder why the Black Order would side with her versus Gamora/Nebula? Wonder what could have caused the besties (Rocket & Groot) to part ways.
Crypt of Shadows #1 makes me wonder if it is too early to call Ewing a Master of Horror? Two chilling tales from Ewing in one week?! Is Marvel trying to psychologically scar the readers?
Avengers #13 revealed the origins of Fan Fei (Iron Fist of the Prehistoric Avengers) and it felt like a remix of the Prometheus myth (but with martial arts elements). I am curious to see how many other Prehistoric Avengers will have Mephisto in come.
Superior Spider-Man #2 impressed me that Otto was able to survive for so long against a cosmic being and take a page out of Doom’s book. I am slightly surprised that Otto didn’t improve on Stark’s enhanced beat-down suits (i.e. the Hulkbuster) and utilize it in the battle.
Feeling Some Type of Way:
Buffy the Vampire Slayer #1 was a great start to a reboot of a beloved series but it felt terribly short.
The Meh Pile:
NADA
This review was written in partnership withPop Culture Network. They can be found on their website: www.popculturenetwork.com
