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Marvel Comics February 2025

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Introduction

Well, it took a snow day and a sick day from work to finally sit down and write Marvel Comics February 2025. As I wrote last time, I need to figure out a way to maintain the holiday momentum into January. Otherwise, things go stagnant for January and then it takes some time to regain the momentum in February. Sometimes, the lag lasts until March. I hope to avoid that this year, but much of my life get put on hold periodically, so stay tuned and send some positive mojo if you can spare.

Amazing Spider-Man 66 (Legacy 960)

Writer: Justina Ireland, Artist: Adrea Broccardo

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts : Spider-Man defeated, broken, and no more? It’s all hands on deck as first Spider-Boy and then Black Cat and finally the X-Men heed the call after Spider-Man’s defeat and the looming end of the world. I fell like the new team is trying to write the former storyline, but in a much better way. So far, I enjoy this story so much more than that and it more or less follows the same pattern of fighting a literal god. Hope they keep the momentum. My verdict: Good.

The Avengers 21 (Legacy 787)

Writer: Jed MacKay, Artist: Valerio Schiti

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: The Avengers face off against the X-Men in what Marvel promises to have far reaching implications for the future. Some fans called this one as soon as MacKay took over both titles. I never saw the first Avengers vs. X-Men story, so I welcome the chance to see the two mega teams in a battle. My verdict: Decent.

Fantastic Four 28 (Legacy 721)

Writer: Ryan North, Artist: Steven Cummings

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Official prologue to One World Under Doom. After failing to properly understand Magic in order to stop Doom, Sorcerer Supreme, Sue suggests that Reed can meet with The Black Knight. The Knight sends them back int time to search for a relic that they can use to help stop Doom. However, of course, not all is as it seems. I’m still pretty geeked over the trailer for the new movie, so that might color my thoughts on this one a bit. Then again, this alone remains from my favorite books since the latest reboot, so maybe I just love what they’ve done with Marvel’s first family. My verdict: Great.

The Immortal Thor 19 (Legacy 780)

Writer: Al Ewing, Artist: Many, so many

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: While the All-Father is away, the Asgardians will…well, not quite play. There’s quite a serious storm brewing and this tells the tales of those who must respond to help fend it off. These are the kinds of stories that I love from Al Ewing. When he brings in the secondary and tertiary characters to give them a chance to shine. My verdict: Great.

The Incredible Hulk 21 (Legacy 802)

Writer: Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Artist: Danny Earls

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Hulk defeated the Skinwalker cult, which awakened some of the most ancient and powerful evils on the planet. Joined by Werewolf at Night, they fight against a demonic wolf. In Charlie news, she gains strength and comes closer to being a super hero. However, other changes make her wonder if she’s a hero after all. Always worried about a letdown after they finish a big story like the previous one. However, PKJ kept things going with this one. I may have lost Guardians and She Hulk, but they gave me Hulk (and hopefully Spider-Man) back. My verdict: Great

The Verdict

With the decision to write separate articles for the X-Books, Marvel Comics February 2025 is only 5 titles. But, they are some of the core titles and some of the best they’ve been in decades. Additionally, unlike some recent events, I look forward to One World Under Doom.

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Marvel Comics December 2024

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Introduction

Thanks to the number of X-Books I ordered, The Incredible Hulk reaching a milestone issue, and writing a separate article for the two Ultimate titles that arrived, I only have 4 titles to review for Marvel Comics December 2024. Two of them have two issues each, though, so a total of six books in the queue. A far cry from a few months ago, but much more manageable as a group.

Amazing Spider-Man 61 and 62 (Legacy 955 and 956)

Writer: Joe Kelly, Artist: Ed McGuinness.

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Strange surrendered the power of the Sorcerer Supreme to Doom in an attempt to save the world. He uses that power to pick Spidey as his champion in a fight against supernatural enemies. This results in a new magical suit and powers plus eight lives with which to accomplish the task. As the title of the arc suggests, he’s two for two on using up those lives in the battles. Pretty gruesome deaths, too.

You all know that I took a long hiatus from ASM. I just couldn’t do it anymore. I hated everything that Zeb Wells did with the character. They made up for it by bringing Kelly on to right the ship with classic Spidey artist, Ed McGuinness. So far, the pace and tone of the title is much better and I think I’m going to be okay with Spidey going forward. My verdict: Good

The Avengers 20 (Legacy 786)

Writer: Jed MacKay, Artist: Farid Karami

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: This issue follows up on the story of Black Panther in the alternate dimension. He fights to free the prisoners from that prison as the rest of the team works on the outside to keep Doom at bay. This issue focuses completely on his story and ends with a question from T’Challa about his potential future.

I enjoyed this issue quite a bit. I think it’s my favorite Avengers issue since the first story line. What’s funny is that it’s essentially a Black Panther solo story. But, it’s the kind of Panther story that I prefer. On the ground (admittedly in an alternate dimension) fighting for the liberation of others. My verdict: Good

Captain America 14 and 15 (Legacy 764 and 765)

Writer: JMS, Artists: Carlos Magno and Jesus Sais

Quick Thoughts and Synopsis: In the shadow of the madness of his previous adventure, Cap teams up with two other former Avengers for this next one. They embark on the mission that, as others have promised (or threatened) will bring them together or tear them apart. The first stop is a small town in Oklahoma where they learn of Thor’s shame experienced there. They fight against Dark Asgard to save the soul of the town and it may prove to be too much after all.

I wrote that the previous adventure felt too supernatural for a Captain America story. This one continues that trend, so I guess JMS is just bringing that corner of the Marvel Comics into Captain America. It makes more sense with Thor on his side, but still feels a little weird. Normally I like weird. I just think the imbalance of real life tempers my enjoyment some. My verdict: Decent.

The Immortal Thor 17 (Legacy 778)

Writer: Al Ewing, Artist: Jan Bazaldua

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: The past again catches up with the Thunder God. Four gods, called into being by his enemies, stalk Thor. While he could defeat them individually, their mutual hatred and ability to work together might finally do him in and end his reign already. However, he defeats them. Enchantress comes to him and they go back to meet his son, Magni.

I normally love everything Ewing does. His Hulk remains my favorite version of the character ever. Then, he brought Venom some semblance of sanity before the whole Knull nonsense. His Thor, though, confuses me. I never entirely understood the Roxxon beginning of the story, then things started to come together and now he throws us another curveball with Magni. I hold out hope that he’ll bring all these threads together. Right now, though, I’m confused. My verdict: Decent.

The Verdict

Marvel Comics December 2024 is a mixed bag. I’m glad Spidey’s back. The Avengers Black Panther story was great. Cap and Thor feel like both writers are taking too many liberties right now with the characters and stories. But, they’re still mostly enjoyable, so I’ll forgive them for now.

Pictures taken from Marvel.

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Marvel Comics November 2024

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Introduction

Still running behind on the web page. I thought it might work out because I missed an order on DCBS. So, fill in with this round of comics and the X-Books next week. Then, I got the shipping notification from them, so I missed an order, just not this one. Oh well, I’ll figure it out eventually. We always do here. Anyway, with the uptick of X-Books and the cancelling of many of my favorites, I only have 5 books to review for Marvel Comics November 2024. And, I’m not going to review one of them. Well, six if you count Amazing Spider-Man. But, I’m not until they find a new writer.

The Avengers 19 (Legacy 785)

Writer: Jed McKay, Artist: Farid Karami

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: The Avengers, minus Black Panther who takes on a recon mission into the Tesseract Diadem, relax on the Impossible City and welcome Storm into their ranks. Doom calls upon them and meets them in a desert in Afghanistan. He poses a question to them. Why, with all of your power, have you not united the world to create it in your image? They refuse his premise and he leaves. In the aftermath, they muse about the purpose of the exercise. Eventually, they come to the conclusion that the offer was real and since they didn’t take him up on it, he intends to do what they wouldn’t.

An interesting lead in to what will eventually become World War Doom or whatever they’re calling the next event. Not an overly action packed issue necessarily, it still made me think. Is there some benefit to having a unified force for the betterment of society? Humans, by and large, haven’t exactly done a great job of it historically. Food for thought. The art is passable, but nothing extraordinary. Fine for what the issue entails. My verdict: Good.

Writer: Ryan North, Artist: Ivan Fiorelli

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: Another story driven issue. Reed and Johnny work excavating a basement. They hit a boulder that Johnny incinerates and it releases a bunch of ghosts. After thinking they sealed the “ghostmouth” as Johnny calls it, the ghosts again escape. They spend the rest of the issue trying to figure out what’s causing it, eventually saving the day. They tell the story to the rest of the crew and because some of the furniture got demolished, Johnny takes the kids to camp in the yard for Halloween.

When I say this is one of the best books out there, this is what I mean. North takes a completely stand alone approach to many of these stories. It harkens back to the older comic books where a story wrapped up in 22 pages. No need for six issue arcs or massive crossovers. Just two characters getting into minor mischief and solving it. This also shows the advantage of keeping teams together. The art fits so well with North’s story and vision and matches the characters perfectly. My verdict: Great.

The Immortal Thor 16 (Legacy 777)

Writer: Al Ewing, Artist: Jan Bazaldua

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: A fight between Thor and Radioactive Man becomes and ambush by The Cobra and Mr. Hyde. Finally, Grey Gargoyle turns him to stone. All except for his belt. Even so, they take advantage and decapitate Stone Thor.

Ewing obviously went on a deep dive in the Marvel wikis. He pulled from the C, D, and F lists on this one. But, he tells a compelling story with these characters and makes a highly unlikely outcome feel like a foregone conclusion. I came into this book expecting the Hulk treatment. Instead, he made a goofy left turn and brought everyone with him. While simplistic, the art gives enough detail during the important panels to not distract from the story. My verdict: Good.

The Incredible Hulk 18 (Legacy 799)

Writer: Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Artists: Danny Earl, Nic Klein

Quick Synopsis and Thoughts: One last issue of set up before the big 800. Hulk reckons with Banner’s betrayal and Charlie teams with members of the cult to try to escape. Or, she may end up trapped forever.

I love this iteration of Hulk. And, while it took some time, the art has grown on me and it doesn’t distract as much from the story. It’s just there’s been a lot of set up recently. I hope that PKJ can pull off the eventual showdown and make it worth the wait. My verdict: Good.

Not Reviewed: Venom. Can we just move on, please?

The Verdict (Marvel Comics November 2024)

Marvel Comics November 2024 gives us mostly story building without a ton of action. That’s fine, though, because all of the stories are good and worth reading. It feels empty with so few books, but maybe I will build the stable up again in the future. Come back next week to see what the X-Books bring.

Images taken from Marvel.com

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Marvel Comics September 2024 Part 2

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Introduction

Yes, it’s October. And, yes, this article mentions Marvel Comics September 2024 Part 2. I told you, I wanted to change things up around here. Also, in the same article (or a different recent one), I mentioned that I always forget how hard the beginning of the school year hits. Hell, just this afternoon, I fell asleep for a good hour or so. The rest of my family joined me for nap time. Adorable, yes. But, also, brutal.

The long story short (I know, always too late) is that I split the Marvel Comics this month into 3 groups of four to allow for my more in depth reviews in a relatively timely fashion. A couple of days ago, I wrote about the first four. Today, I cover Thor, Hulk, Nyx, and Phoenix. Next time will be Venom and two other X-titles.

The Immortal Thor 13 (Legacy 774)

Writer: Al Ewing, Artist: Jan Bazaldua

Quick Synopsis: The issue starts with an interlude to introduce the principles in the story. Ewing tells it from a more modern perspective with both Thor and Loki wearing trendy tees and dad shorts. That leads to a name drop of Nyx and the “land of eternal night”. Cut to Thor and Herc traveling to Antarctica to face another trial. They succeed with some intervention from Loki. The issue ends with someone from Herc’s past entering into the picture.

My verdict: After what I consider to be growing pains at the beginning of the Al Ewing Thor era, this title came into its own. I love the dichotomy of the modern introduction with the mythology of the rest of the book works very well. It makes me think of a quote from Chris Hemsworth who said (paraphrased), “Maybe we had too much fun making the fourth Thor movie.” First, I don’t understand how you can have too much fun making a movie? Sure, it’s a job, but it must be hella fun, too. Second, I don’t agree. I really enjoyed that movie. People are just miserable shits. Anyway, this issue channeled much of that fun. I think I wrote last time that I didn’t recognize the artist, but he’s on the title full time. Good thing. He gives life to both the modern story and the story of the trial. Then, the final reveal brings it full circle. Good

The Incredible Hulk 15 (Legacy 796)

Writer: Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Artist: Danny Earls

Quick Synopsis: As the eldest senses a Hulk approaching through the desert, it brings her back to a time millennia ago. A nomad finds a cave. In that cave, the first hulk awakens. It goes on a rampage and kills several and maims one. That one drags his destroyed body back to deliver a message to the Eldest. -She exterminates him and the issue closes with the showdown between the Eldest and the Incredible Hulk imminent.

My Verdict: PKJ tells a wonderful horror story. He continues the recent history of Al Ewing bringing back the horror to the title. This particular story adds to the mythology by bringing us back to the original Hulk. Not the original as in the 60s, but the first Hulk. Way further back that that. It reminds me of the Venom story that introduced Knull. This one leaned a little too heavy on the violence for me, but PKJ didn’t sacrifice story for it, so I don’t mind. Of the two artists that work on Hulk now, I prefer Earls. Even though he still gives the book a more cartoonish vibe, the dimensions aren’t quite as weird and the models have more depth. Good.

Nyx 2

Writers: Collin Kelly, Jackson Lanzing, Artist: Francesco Mortarino

Quick Synopsis: Laura on the cover. That’s not a an okie doke. The entire issue deals with her trying to track down and infiltrate the group responsible for the missing mutants. She starts by mistakenly shaking down the protectors of a mutant. But, that gets her a lead that she uses to go undercover as “Scratch” when the lackey tries to identify her as the Wolverine. By proving that she’s the second best at what she does, she works her way up to the head, Mr. Friend. Uh, no. Mojo is in charge. After a good first shot, Mojo sends her back with her tail between her legs to love to fight another day.

My verdict: Kelly and Lanzing brought me the most fun Guardians of the Galaxy stories in their history. For those who think that James Gunn owns the Guardians wholesale, please read Grootfall. They bring that magic to this title, one that I never read before, and are telling a fantastic story so far. The art brings me back to the X-Men of my youth and that’s a good thing. This might be my favorite X-title to come out of the ashes so far. Great.

Phoenix 2

Writer: Stephanie Phillips, Artist: Alessandro Miracolo.

Quick Synopsis: Jean chose the life of universal protector. This issue continues setting that up and throws her a curveball. Her family arrives to tell her that her services are needed. She heeds this advice only to realize that family is, as always, complicated.

My verdict: I missed the first issue of this one, so I’m catching up on the fly. But, I don’t want things to go years like they did with the previous iteration of the X-books. With that being said, I don’t know if there’s enough interest out there for a solo Phoenix book right now. I love that they’re giving more voices to more creators, so I hope the book continues. I just wonder. Additionally, for this one too, that whoever is finding the talent for these books has guys like me in mind who remember 90s X-Men. Good

Final Verdict (Marvel Comics September 2024 Part 2)

I enjoyed the first group of books for Marvel Comics so far this month. Honestly, Marvel Comics September 2024 Part 2 brings more of the same. Little to no drop off in quality in either writing or art for these book, either. I keep saying and I will keep saying it. This is an amazing time to be a comic book fan.

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Marvel Legacy Issues September 2024

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Introduction

With my new commitment to making the page more reader friendly, I spread my comics reviews out over the month instead of trying to finish them all in one week. Even so, with all of the new X-Men titles, I need to read and review over a dozen Marvel books. So, I split them up this week into two categories. Lucky for me, one of those categories included Marvel Legacy Issues September 2024.

The Amazing Spider-Man 950 and The Immortal Thor 14 (Legacy 775. Okay, I guess we’re celebrating quarters now. Fine.) both arrived in my DCBS order this month. And, still, even if I review those both in this article and give Sensational She-Hulk the send off she deserves, that’s still twelve books to read and review. I should look at that as a good problem to have. So, I will.

The Amazing Spider-Man 950

Writer: Zeb Wells (Oi), Artist: JRJR.

Quick Synopsis: We open on a flashback where Kingpin and Tombstone are on a safari. Kingpin points out a lion who took over a pack and killed a baby because resources are scarce. Power and something something, you get the point. In the present, Spidey breaks up an arms deal and attempts to keep the illusion alive that he’s working with Tombstone. Something something, tenuous grip on power. Tombstone pulls up while Robby and Peter are talking and “invites” Peter into the limo. Something something and they’re now fighting. The fight gets interrupted by She-Hulk and Luke Cage (Peter’s lawyer and the mayor?) and they take Tombstone into custody. The issue ends with the opening of Tombstone’s trial. There are also two short stories that I only skimmed. One shows how Peter retained She-Hulk’s services. The other mentions Wayep, so yeah.

My Verdict: While not a great issues, this one is decent. It’s not as bad as the worst of Wells. So, I give him credit for a mostly fun story in this landmark issue. I still refuse to read any more of what’s he’s done. Chris told me that it’s been up and down, but I guess I only saw the down. Also, Spidey is my favorite super hero of all time, so you don’t do him dirty and expect me to forgive you any time soon. JRJR’s art has absolutely evolved in a good way over time. While still distinct and blocky and not quit on the level of dear old dad, I don’t mind it as much on this book right now. Decent and that’s saying something from me, a know drinker of “Zeb Wells Amazing Spider-Man” haterade.

The Immortal Thor 14 (Legacy 775)

Writer: Al Ewing, Artist: Jan Bazaldua

Quick Synopsis: This, too, opens with some background. Rhea seeks the wisdom of Gaea to help keep her child alive. Because of Gaea’s actions, the child is doomed to be devoured by Chronos. Chronos arrives, takes the child, but spares him. That child grows up to be Zeus, who fulfills the prophecy of Gaea. In the present, Thor and Hercules wander through the dark realm that they were banished to. The book is billed as Thor the All-Father vs. Zeus the Skyfather and it doesn’t disappoint. A fun story and battle steeped in Norse mythology. It ends with Thor defeating Zeus and taking his power. Hercules isn’t so sure he likes the new Thunder God, but Thor tells him not to worry.

My verdict: I admit to not getting the first couple of issues of this book when Al Ewing took over. The whole Roxxon thing turned me off a bit. I know that it has deep roots in Marvel Comics history. However, it just didn’t work for me. I knew that Ewing would figure it out. He always does. But, after his masterful run on The Incredible Hulk and great stories on Venom, I just found the whole thing weird. I’m not familiar with the artist on this one, but they bring the head (well, lightning) in the fight without going overboard. I mean, they could be forgiven as it is two gods fighting for supremacy, but they show restraint. And, the more introspective scenes are painted with a deft hand to bring some balance to the story. Great. I love the mythology piece and the fight really was awesome.

The Verdict

We knew going in that Marvel Comics Legacy Issues September 2024 might be a bit of a mixed bag. I hoped for a decent Spider-Man story and got that. I didn’t know what to expect from Thor both because it’s such a weird milestone to celebrate but also because the Roxxon story still lingers in the back of my mind. But, I loved this issue.

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Marvel Comics July 2024

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Introduction

This article took much longer than anticipated. I expected to write it Friday (or Saturday at the latest) of last week and then pushed it off more and more. We were supposed to go see an Alanis Morrissette concert tonight, but we made the plans before securing summer school jobs this week. Plus, the traffic promises to be a nightmare and I don’t relish sitting in this swampy weather with a sold out concert crowd. Sorry, Alanis. Next time. Instead, I figured, why not finally write about Marvel Comics July 2024.

Temporary Category: I don’t Care About Blood Hunt

The funny part about this month is that four titles have the Blood Hunt tie in. I care nothing about this event or any of the supporting materials and, so, read none of them. Vampires were only my thing for a brief period in high school. Then, Twilight ruined the lore for me.

Temporary Category: Na Na Na Na Hey Hey Hey Good-Bye

I saw an article that they’re moving on and changing creative teams for this title. I sent the article to Chris and he replied, “Not a fan?” I think we all know the answer to that one. My Verdict: Thank goodness.

Captain America 10 (Legacy 760)

Writer: JMS, Artist: Jesus Saiz. Some writers are timeless. Some are products of their time. I started to think that maybe JMS fit into the second category. I love his Amazing Spider-Man. Sure, he and Joey Q brought us One More Day, but honestly, I forgive him for that one because his work on Civil War blew me away and that’s my impression of his run. So far on Cap, he hasn’t quite reached that same standard. But, I think he just needed some time to find his voice in the character. Even in this one, we get too much of the Spidey silliness and the start of the issue is very talky. But, the end makes up for it and I want to see where he goes next. My verdict: Good.

The Immortal Thor 12 (Legacy 773)

Writer: Al Ewing, Artist: Valentina Pinti. Likewise, Ewing took some big swings in his first Thor story. Most of them hit, but some missed big time in my opinion. This issue reads more like the Norse lore Thor. Wow, that’s a possible tongue twister there. I prefer the modern interpretation of the character, but Ewing makes this work for me for the issue at least. My verdict: Good.

The Incredible Hulk 13 (Legacy 794)

Writer: Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Artist: Nic Klein. Speaking of Ewing, he brought back the horror element to Hulk with Immortal Hulk and shot the title into the stratosphere, in my opinion. Surprisingly, after a lackluster run with Donny Cates (though I enjoyed his introduction), Phillip Kennedy Johnson picks up the horror mantle and I think his stuff might even be better than Ewing. I can’t get over the art, but it’s less offensive to me, so maybe I’m just coming to terms with the fact that it’s not changing. My verdict: Great.

The Sensational She-Hulk 9 (Legacy 187)

Writer: Rainbow Rowell, Artist: Andres Genolet. I never expected to enjoy Rowell’s She-Hulk as much as I have. Throughout the duration, I consistently called it my favorite Marvel book. Now I hear that Marvel’s killing the book. This absolutely guts me, but I have a new era of X-Men to finally jump into that maelstrom next month. My verdict: The end of an absolute sensational era. Thanks for the memories.

The Verdict

Marvel Comics July 2024 brings 4 ignored books because of a passionate disinterest in the evnt tie-ins, more Spider-Man disappointment, two absolute Hulk bombs (in the good way) and a couple of good to almost very good other issues. The She-Hulk announcement destroyed me. I’m gonna need some time.

Note: Maybe it’s Marvel Math. Maybe it’s genuine. But the latest issue of Uncanny X-Men reads #700 and has a bunch of talent on the cover. I’ll review that one like I do all the milestone issues in the next article.

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Marvel Comics June 2024

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Introduction

I took the Blood Hunt tie in issues out of the pile. Not really caring all that much about the main title, that gives me no reason to read the tie ins. Without them, Marvel Comics June 2024 is only 5 other titles. And, yet, I still fell behind and released this article two days late. Oh well, better late than never.

Amazing Spider-Man #50 (Legacy 944)

Note: I’m only going to review the main story. The additional stories are a fun diversion, so maybe I’ll put them in their own article.

Writer: Zeb Wells, Artist: Ed McGuinness. Well, we made it 50 issues with Wells as writer. About a month ago, I became so disgusted with this title that I stopped reading it. Then, I picked it up again last month. The current story still feels dumb. A living (now walking) brain? Okay, fine, whatever. But, he brought back the goblin in this issue and the fight between the two old enemies makes up for the other stuff for now. Plus, we get McGuinness on the title for an issue. That’s always welcome. My verdict: Decent

Captain America 9 (Legacy 759)

Writer: J. Michael Straczynski, Artist: Jesus Saiz. JMS drops Cap and us in a Chilean desert where he encounters a lost penguin. This leads to a substory about the nature of what normal is and how we react to those that are different from us. Yeah, he gets a bit philosophical on this one. In the course of bringing the penguin back to the shore, he rescues one of his allies. An interesting issue, if not terribly unique. My verdict: Decent.

Fantastic Four 20 (Legacy 713)

Writer: Ryan North, Artist: Carlos Gomez. Johnny and Ben get fired (pun fully intended) from their job at the brewery. They take another job at a grocery store. They also get let go from that one. Too much publicity for the store. Oh, and monsters are attacking outside, so they are needed by the FF. Sounds like a boring story, but North makes it fun as usual. Not as much fun as some during his run, but that’s okay. My verdict: Good.

The Immortal Thor #11 (Legacy 772)

Writer: Al Ewing, Artist: Valentina Pinti. Ewing takes some swings with this title since taking over. Some miss, but most hit. And, honestly, the missed become hits eventually because he makes them pay off. Honestly, I’m just glad that we’re out of the Jason Aaron Thor days. I like Aaron, but I didn’t like his Thor. This issue is more standard Thor and it mostly works for what it is. Just the usual team up with his siblings to solve a problem. My verdict: Good.

Sensational She-Hulk 8 (Legacy 186)

Writer: Rainbow Rowell, Artist: Andres Genolet. I can’t say enough good things about this title. It’s got everything. Action. Humor. Love. Betrayal. Cake. I’ve said it before, but I will say it again. Rainbow Rowell gets this character on a deep level and writes the title with love and respect. If you aren’t reading She-Hulk right now, can you even call yourself a comic book fan? My verdict: Great.

The Verdict

None of the titles from Marvel Comics June 2024 outright annoy or offend me, so that’s a step in the right direction. I may come back to Blood Hunt eventually, but I seriously doubt it. Vampires aren’t my thing. Zombies are my thing. But, even I can admit that they’ve been overdone over the last decade or so. Give the vamps their day in the sun. Not literally, of course.

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Marvel Comics May 2024

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Intorduction

A week late, but I finally finished my comics articles for this month with Marvel Comics May 2024. But, I still consider that a win. With how nuts things at school went over the last two weeks and summer coming in about a month, I just need to hold the line until then. Hopefully you all understand. I promise to make the summer far more productive. Until then, enjoy what I content I can provide.

Amazing Spider-Man #47 and #48 (Legacy #941 and #942)

Writer: Zeb Wells, Artist: JRJR. I promised to avoid ASM until Zeb Wells no longer wrote the book. However, if I skipped this one and Incredible Hulk (because the art is just not great, that left me with only 3 comics for Marvel May 2024. While not as offensive as some of the recent stories, these issues don’t give me the good Spidey vibes that I enjoy. Still, I hold onto hope that the worst is behind us. My verdict: Decent.

The Avengers #13 (Legacy #779)

Writer: Jed McKay, Artist: Francesco Mortarino. I saw that Marvel put McKay on X-Men starting with the new series. When I looked it up, Redditers seem to think that means that an Avengers vs. X-Men crossover is imminent. I don’t know about that, but this issues is probably one of the weakest ones of McKay’s tenure so far. Not bad, by any stretch, but not as great as most of the issues in this run. Now, the Blood Hunt tie in that I have no interest in reading. My verdict: Good.

Fantastic Four #19 (Legacy #712)

Writer: Ryan North, Artist: Carlos Gomez. Marvel took Guardians away from me again. And no She-Hulk this time around means that the most consistently great book in the lot is Fantastic Four. This one reads like an old noir crime novel that eventually reveals as a bungled attempt by Trapster to use a cosmic cube. An absolute blast from cover to cover. My verdict: Great.

The Immortal Thor #10 (Legacy #771)

Writer: Al Ewing, Artist: Carlos Magno. As you know, I loved Ewing’s Hulk. He wrote the book so masterfully and told a story for the ages. It took me some time to warm up to this version of Thor, but I enjoyed the last two issues and think I finally understand what he’s trying to accomplish here. And, I’m fully on board with it. My verdict: Great.

The Incredible Hulk #11 and #12 (Legacy #792 and #793)

Writer: Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Artist: Danny Earls and Nic Klein. I mentioned Hulk earlier. The story of this title is amazing. I never thought it possible, but PKJ not only continues the horror vibe of Ewing’s Hulk, he actually amps it up a few levels. But, the art is so bad that it detracts from my enjoyment of the book. Spidey’s starting to come around with the story. Maybe they’ll finally find another artist for this one. My verdict: Story, great. Art, let’s move on.

The Verdict

I actually enjoyed all of the books this month on their own for different reasons. Spider-Man is crawling back to respectability. Avengers, Fantastic Four, and Thor all continue their good runs. And, the Hulk’s storyline is fabulous. Now, if only Marvel can iron out the slight wrinkles.

Cover images taken from the Mothership, mostly.

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Marvel Comics April 2024

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Introduction

As mentioned in the previous DC review article, Marvel Comics April 2024 comes a week later than anticipated. Technically, it comes 5 days later, but you get the point. I also wrote in that article that I started to feel too generous with these reviews. While I recovered from that then, I feel a bit like this article will reinforce that idea. You’ll see what I mean when we get right into the reviews. And, I thought I might have more to say, but instead, let’s do this thing.

Decent

Writer: Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Art: Daniel Earls

I just texted Chris, “The art on the new Hulk series is so bad.” I said something stronger, but no reason to repeat the curse here. He agreed. I think that my instinct is pretty strong overall, but I like to get his opinion as well to make sure that I’m not missing something. Turns out I’m not. The title continues with the horror theme set by Al Ewing and does a decent job of emulating that. With even passable art, I’d push this into the “Good” section and it might even flirt with great. It’s just that the art is so bad that it drags the title down. Stop doing Hulk so dirty, Marvel.

Good

Writer: Eve L. Ewing, Artist: Christopher Allen
Writer: J. Michael Straczynski, Art: Carlos Magno

Apparently, this issue ends Eve Ewing’s run on the title. I don’t see the title in the coming solicitations, either. It struggled a little bit with me through the 10 issues, but overall I enjoyed it and will miss it during this hiatus. Can’t wait to see who they get to write it next. Similarly, this run with JMS on Cap took a bit to get going. But, this issue floored me. It reminded me of everything I enjoyed about his Spider-Man. Still not as good as my favorite Cap writers, but he’ll get there.

Great

Fantastic Four 18

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Writer: Ryan North, Artist: Carlos Gomez

Fantastic Four, She-Hulk, and Doctor Strange all make regular appearances here. Avengers also often appears here. So, I will concentrate on the newbies. I have no idea what’s happened to Guardians of the Galaxy. Maybe I fucked up my DCBS order. Nope, a quick Google machine search shows that they’re done again. Fudge. Oh well, Al Ewing back on Venom gives me the warm and fuzzies. Speaking of Al, his run on Thor is finally starting to ramp up and I think it’s going to be a blast. Stay tuned.

The Verdict

Marvel Comics April 2024 brings an impressive line up of titles and stories. While not all awesome, I said several times that it’s a magical thing when the title matches the author so well. I don’t know if both publishers are using AI or what, but they’ve both figured out how to make that work in a big way. As I’ve been saying, it’s a great time to be a comic fan right now.

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March 2024 Marvel Comics

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Introduction

Missed another deadline in March. Unsure why this happens every year around this time. I heard that trauma can resurface as a memory even if you can’t remember the event or events. I mean, that’s as likely as anything. Then again, maybe it’s just hangover from winter hibernation. Either way, March 2024 Marvel Comics comes two days late.

I skipped a couple of books again this month. Two, you know. I want to get the entire run of “Gang War” since I accidentally skipped a month in DCBS. Likewise, I’m so far behind in X-Men I don’t think I’ll ever catch up. Finally, Dr. Strange #12 didn’t fit with #13 and Venom #31 paired with Carnage #5 (which I didn’t order) for a two part story.

Decent

Black Panther 9

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Writer: Eve L. Ewing, Art: Chris Allen and Mack Chater

Black Panther fell off a bit this month. I can’t explain why. But it just didn’t hit as well as it had been. As I read, I noticed that Punisher isn’t a legacy numbered title. I know that it’s a “new Punisher”, but that still surprised me. Also, I forgot how wordy J. Michael can be, probably from his time on television and movies. His Cap hits all the right notes, but lacks the edge of some of my other favorite Cap writers.

Great

Avengers 10 and 11

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Writer: Jed McKay with various artists

Avengers 10 ended the previous story with a bang. The only reason I moved them to good is because 11 followed up a little stale. Doctor Strange assembles the Secret Defenders (an odd ball group, but necessary) to battle a role playing game that actually draws from the occult. Fun story so far. Everything I said about Hulk last month holds this month, especially the art. Goodness, Marvel, take better care of my boys Spidey and Hulk. I saw Al Ewing came back for an issue of Venom. I think they did it to give Gronbekk time to focus on the Venom/Carnage crossover. Ewing writes a decent story, but nothing on the level of his actual run. Speaking of Ewing, his Thor is starting to take shape and I think will soon get up to great.

Great

Writer: Ryan North, Art: Carlos Gomez
Writer: Rainbow Rowell, Art: Andres Genolet

Last month, no She-Hulk. This month two issues and no Guardians. Not sure if it’s Marvel shipping schedule, DCBS, or my screw up. Oh well, There’s not much more that I can say about She-Hulk at this point. They just found the perfect writer for the character and I enjoy everything about the title. Fantastic Four leads with a shocking discovery and crafts a great narrative around that discovery. Also, just a fun title right now.

The Verdict

Unlike DC and Spawn/TMNT, March 2024 Marvel Comics takes a bit of a step back. None of them are bad, but most of them are just solid stories with good art. I suppose we could have worse problems in our comics reading lives. Until next time, Zombies, Excelsior!

Images taken from the mothership.