Reading and Writing 2.8.2011

The first dedicated "review" blog of last week's comic releases, or at least the ones I bought. Thanks to Chad W. and Dave F. for suggesting this as a feature.

So, welcome to Reading and Writing for 2.8.2011 - Books released on 2.2.2011

Batman Odyssey #6

I've generally been a defender of this series, and I still consider it a must-read. It's Neal Adams artwork, for God's sake! You don't just write that off.

That said...This is the first issue of this series where I had trouble figuring out what the hell was going on, and simply how I was supposed to move from panel to panel. I also respect Adams' desire to fit a lot of story into each issue, but this is like the full opposite of the decompressed storytelling that's overrun the industry. Yet, in a way, it's exactly the same. The story doesn't really move very far forward in this issue, but a crap-load of exposition is spewed out.

Not to mention a really, really poor ending. I mean, Bruce says, "I'm tired," and collapses into sleep on the Batcave floor? What the hell was that? It was almost like a joke, a way to end the issue quickly because, well...that was 22 pages.

Disappointed.

Brightest Day #19

Hey, Aquaman got his had cut off...again. Which is fine, I always thought the "harpoon-hand" was pretty badass, but, once again, where is this series going? The Deadman/Liveman/White Lantern/Whatever stuff in the first half of the issue is obviously trying to put the pieces in position to start wrapping things up, but it certainly feels like too little, too late.

The "Aquawar" section was at least propulsive, but, maybe I''m stupid, why are Mera's people attacking the surface world? The answer might be in the book, but, frankly, it made no impact. It was just something for Aquaman and the new Aqualad to run from/through, then, bam! Black Manta cuts off Aquaman's hand...again.

The art is really solid, and unified, on this book. That's saying something for this schedule and the sheer number of artists working on it. It at least looks fantastic.

Jonah Hex #64

Heh, that one was twisted. A tale of sexual perversion isn't the usual for Hex, but they've hit on almost every other form of perversion, so why not? As usual, there's not much backstory, and half the dialogue is in untranslated Spanish. That, however, is really one of the strengths of this book. I love how each issue pretty much just drops you, and Jonah, into the middle of something that's already in play, and Hex's eye for human weakness makes it crystal clear to him very quickly.

"Nelson" was this month's artist, and he's got a very clean, precise line. His women are nice, too, which is fitting for a story turning on a beautiful woman. He's (She's?) an artist I would love to see on any superhero book, it's that kind of work, but it didn't really feel like Jonah Hex art. Too clean, in a modern comic book way. I've grown used to seeing very identifiable, quirky artists on this series, Jordi Bernet, Darwyn Cooke, and Nelson doesn't have a lot of quirk.

The Stand: No Man's Land #1

This book is really hard to review for me. It's a really good adaptation of the novel, and the team has plenty of room (with 30 issues, when all's said and done) to tell the story right. I can reccommend it very much, if you like the book. The script by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa is excellent, the art by Mike Perkins fits the material.

It's hard to really mention anything else. If you're reading these connected mini-series, you're likely a Stephen King fan, and if you're a Stephen King fan, you've likely read The Stand.  There's not going to be a lot surprising, nor is there anything that's going to upset you.

I mean, my only complaint is that Larry Underwood has looked less and less like Bruce Springsteen (who King suggested should play the role in a movie) as the series have gone forward. But, y'know, whatever...

...and there you go.

Ultimate Comics New Ultimates #5

OK, so, I can't even tell you how long it's been since issue #4 of this series. I mean, what the hell is the deal with Ultimates projects?Yes, yes, I know you want a "hot" artist, but, my God....I feel like this mini-series started almost two years ago. It was right after that Ultimatum nightmare, right?

I mention this because, it took me at least 4 pages to try to re-set my brain to where we actually were with this story, and what the hell was at stake. Yeah, yeah, Marvel provides a "quick recap" on the first page, but does anybody else remember when, A) you got that info in one cation on the opening splash page, and B) The characters themselves would re-iterate the events throughout the story? Yes, I know that's not the most "realistic" way for people to talk...

But I remind you...It's a COMIC BOOK, about a man out of time, a Norse God and a dude that build himself a suit of armor that would need a nuclear reactor to power it. I don't read superhero comics for realism, no matter what Mark Millar's deal is. I just wish, especially if your artist is gonna need five months between issues, you reflected that in the writing.

Now, on that score, Frank Cho's art is pretty stunning, but not his best. Some of the female figures, which we all know is his strong suit, seem a bit out of proportion in some panels. It's not terrible, and I certainly couldn't do any better, but with the wait we've had...?

New Comic Day 2.2.2011 (Blizzard Edition)

Well, with the weather in Chicage being as it is, I really doubt many people will actually get their books in this town. Also check for a new feature at the end of today's blog...

Batman Odyssey #6 (of 12) $3.99

Written by NEAL ADAMS
Art and cover by NEAL ADAMS
1:10 Black and white variant cover by NEAL ADAMS

The first part of Neal Adams's Batman epic comes to a dramatic conclusion as Batman, Deadman and The Joker – working together and against each other – break into Arkham Asylum and confront the doctors who control the most heinous criminals. But does some other powerful individual control these monsters? Is it the Sensei, the deadliest martial artist in the word and leader of the League of Assassins? Or is it Ra's al Ghul, the greatest opponent Batman has ever faced? And is The Dark Knight willing to let Talia die to bring this monstrous clash to an end?

Well, that's the halfway point. I'm sure there will be another round of "this sucks" from the online crowd. Me? I'm enjoying it in much the same way I enjoyed All-Star Batman and Robin. It's a major, classic talent taking Batman and running with it in a very personal way. Yeah, it is a bit "talky," and I wish Adams had given O'Neil a call. You can't argue that the art is amazing, however.

Brightest Day #19 $2.99

Written by GEOFF JOHNS & PETER J. TOMASI
Art by IVAN REIS, PATRICK GLEASON,
ARDIAN SYAF, SCOTT CLARK & JOE PRADO
Covers by DAVID FINCH & SCOTT WILLIAMS
1:10 Variant Covers by IVAN REIS

The BRIGHTEST DAYS are numbered as this best-selling series heads toward its shocking conclusion, and fans won't want to miss a single page of the action! "Aquawar" breaks out with Aquaman, Mera, Aqualad and a surprise guest star facing off against the terrorist forces of Black Manta and Siren to keep the vast waters of the world from sinking the United States!

Oh, Jesus..."Aquawar"....I smell another endless crossover event.



Jonah Hex #64 $2.99

Written by JUSTIN GRAY & JIMMY PALMIOTTI
Art and Cover by NELSON

Jonah Hex was only looking for a little peace and quiet, but he didn't know it was time for the festival known as San Juan's Day. He also didn't know that this festival tends to bring out the crazy in people, but he should've figured that out as soon as he met Rosa. That big knife in her hand should've been a clue…

Look, folks...Get it through your head. BUY THIS BOOK!!







The Stand: No Man's Land #1 $3.99

Penciller: Mike Perkins
Inker: Tim Bradstreet
Colorist: LAURA JEAN MARTIN
Letterer: NEUROTIC CARTOONIST, INC

While Frannie and Stu struggle to find a balance between their personal lives and their public personas, an unholy, unspeakable alliance is born between Harold Lauder and Nadine Cross. It's a date with destiny, orchestrated by the Dark Man, and it could very well mean doom for the Boulder Free Zone. It's time to commune with the spirits of the dead, True Believers, and their message is clear: "You cannot miss what's coming next!"

Y'know, Marvel's solicitation materials have been for shit lately. Last week, there were no credits for the creative team on Captain America, at all, and this week...Who wrote this?

Anyway, this mega-project has been a pretty solid adaptaion of one of my favorite novels.

Ultimate Comics New Ultimates #5 $3.99

Writer: Tim Bradstreet
Artist: FRANK CHO
Colorist: JASON KEITH

New Ultimates

"New Ultimates?" Way to go, Marvel. I have to wait, what? Six months between issues? It would probably help if you'd give us a little something to help remember what's going on.
 
 
 
 
 
Capsule Reviews of last weeks books.
 
I'm hoping to actually set aside a day each week to actually talk about the books after I've read them, as has been suggested. Unfortunately, last week got away from me, but here's a rundown.
 
Detective Comics #873
Scott Snyder and Jock continue to impress. I'm hoping for a retrun engagement with The Dealer, hopped up on Venom and Man-Bat formula, or not. It's genuinely one of the most logical, original, and creepy new bat-foes in a good long time.
 
That said, lost points for the "Batman wakes up to something horrible, but...oh, he's just under chemical influence" thing. That lost it's cachet with O'Neil and Adams.
 
SHAZAM! #1
Sold out at my store. Didn't get it.
 
Captain America #614
As I suspected, Bucky manages to escape custody to tackle the New Red Skull and her crew. He's gotta go handle it, despite the fact that STEVE FRIGGIN' ROGERS told him he would handle it. Once again, I'm struck by the ego on Mr. Bucky Barnes. Yeah, yeah, you're Captain America...but when the REAL Captain America tells you he's gonna handle the situation, it pretty much diffuses my belief in you having to deal with it yourself.
 
I did love the use of Doctor Faustus, both in the courtroom, and in the paddywagon conversation with Bucky. Ed Brubaker is doing really amazing work with this book, even if I don't like every choice, it's all executed well.
 
The Nomad back-up feature? It's good, but not great.
 
Ultimate Spider-Man #152
OK, first off, the Iron Man bit was amazingly funny. I love how these guys are suppoed to teach Peter how to be a hero, but they are so utterly removed from any sort of "regular" life, it's starting off as a disaster. I mean, none of the Ultimates has a "secret identity," they're all celebrities. Stark catches on quick, but it makes complete sense that he'd not even think about flying down to May Parker's house and asking for Spider-Man. Brilliant bit, and I think it point toward how this whole "plan" S.H.I.E.L.D. has cooked up is not going to end well.
 
Also, the conversation with Gwen was, as usual, letter-perfect. It's just amazing to me how much of a handle Bendis has on these characters.
 
And, of course, the Black Cat/Mysterio stuff is simmering well. I can't help but figure this is the plotline that's going to erupt when Bagley returns for "The Death of Spider-Man."

New Comic Day 11.24.2010

As I said yesterday, I've been dreading this day. It's going to be a large chunk out of my wallet, with the at least $24 from last week, and this week totaling up to about $21. Ah, the pain of being a fanboy...

Batman and Robin #17 ($2.99)

Written by Paul Cornell
Art by Scott McDaniel and Rob Hunter
Cover by Guillem March
Variant cover by Gene Ha

Dick and Damian head into the murky depths of Bruce Wayne's past to protect him from whoever has stolen the corpse of his old girlfriend, Una Nemo. Join them as they move from an empty grave to the flaming fingers to the Night Wedding — and meet a mad, gory new villain known as The Absence!

So, here we have the very first issue of Batman and Robin not written by Grant Morrison. I have to confess, I am very interested in how this will turn out. There's really nothing to go on. Morrison had very specific things he needed/wanted to do with this title, and he did them. Now he's gone. Leaving a couple of great additions (Professor Pyg, I love you!), and more than a few I'm less than enamored with (*cough*Batman: Incorporated*cough*).

What I can say is this, I can't bring anything written by Paul Cornell, that I have read, directly to mind. He's a blank slate. I enjoy Scott McDaniel's art. So, we're starting fresh here. Go, boys!

Batman: Odyssey #5 ($3.99)

Written by Neal Adams
Art and cover by Neal Adams
1:25 Black and white variant cover by Neal Adams

Batman knows his Odyssey must happen soon before he loses himself, but Deadman invades The Dark Knight's world and only sees the inevitable crash and burn of his old friend. Should Deadman add to Batman's "crash" – or hold off and give the Caped Crusader a few last moments of relative peace? This is Deadman we're talking about – of course he's going to step in!

Oh, and there's one more thorn in Batman's side – in this issue, The Joker arrives!

Ah, so Adams is bringing in the Joker. Like we thought that wouldn't happen. I enjoy this book. It's crazy and wild, and has about 40 too many ideas it's trying to convey on each page, but that leaves you with a jam-packed book. I'm an Adams believer, so I'm giving him lots of rope to hang himself with.

Of course, it seems like most fan online are in opposition to me, and hate this book like poison. Your mileage may vary.

Detective Comics #871 ($3.99)

Written by Scott Snyder
Art and cover by Jock
Co-feature Art by Francesco Francavilla

Up-and-coming writer Scott Snyder (AMERICAN VAMPIRE) and acclaimed artist Jock (THE LOSERS) make their debut as the new ONGOING creative team of DETECTIVE COMICS!

In "The Black Mirror" part 1 of 3, a series of brutal murders pushes Batman's detective skills to the limit and forces him to confront one of Gotham City's oldest evils.

Plus, in the start of a COMMISSIONER GORDON second feature also written by Scott Snyder, when a figure from the past returns to Gotham, Jim Gordon must face some of his darkest demons. Featuring; Art by Francesco Francavilla (GARRISON).

Y'know, it about time somebody figured out that Commissioner Gordon is a natural choice for a Batman back-up feature. Kudos to that.

Now, I don't read American Vampire, and I am unfamiliar with any work by this creative team. That said, the solicit promises something that could be very interesting, and I love that cover image. If that's the kind of thing I can expect from Jock, bring it on.

Captain America #612 ($3.99)

Writer:Ed Brubaker,
Co-Feature Writer:Sean McKeever
Artist: Marko Djurdjevic
Co-Feature Artist: Butch Guice

Not even Captain America can escape the crimes buried in his past... The most controversial story of the year "The Trial of Captain America" continues! By the acclaimed team of Ed Brubaker and Butch Guice

 So, look, I admire what Ed Brubaker has done with this book, and with the Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier/Captain America character. He brought the character back from the dead, one of the characters that had managed to stay dead in comics for over forty years, and that the entire community/fanbase understood was a character that had more power, and value, dead, rather than alive. He did it, and he made it work, and work well. It was possibly THE most audacious move in Marvel continuity since Spider-Man got married in the 80's.

**No, we're not going to discuss the "undoing" the marriage/deal with Mephisto/Satan thing. "One More Day" does not exist in this dojo.**

Not only that, he made the character compelling on many levels, so much so that when Steve Rogers "died" and a new Captain America was needed, the obvious choice, to everyone, was Bucky. That's amazing work, and amazing writing. Kudos, kudos on all sorts of levels.

But man...Wrap it up, OK? I'm sick of looking at Steve in this:

It's not right, and everyone knows it, including you, AND it's a dumb-looking costume.

How come I get the idea that someone over there in the Marvel Editorial/Corporate Synergy Department is whispering in your ear to "drag it out, we can tie it into the movie next summer!" Please, I've enjoyed everything you've put together for this title. It's all worked, on one level or another, even this current storyline, which feels like the beginning of the end for Bucky Barnes. I really hope that's what we're building toward.

Captain America: Rebirth didn't work AT ALL. The story was weak, and the execution poor. The one redeeming value was that it got Steve back...then you (and Editorial) backpedaled. Fix it.

Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #150 ($5.99)

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis
Artists: Skottie Young, David LaFuente

Not only is this officially the Ultimate Spider-Man 150th issue anniversary, but it is also the 10 year anniversary of the birth of the Ultimate Marvel universe!! Can you believe it?? We can't either! To celebrate, Eisner award-winning series writer Brian Michael Bendis has created this triple size extravaganza and gathered together a stellar lineup of amazing artists!! A reunion of the greatest artists of not only this historic book but of the the entire line of Ultimate Comics. Poor Peter Parker has made such a mess of his life as Spider-Man that the other super heroes are forced to gather together and decide once and for all what to do with the young wall crawler. Guest starring the New Ultimates, the Storm Siblings, Ben Grimm, Iceman, Kitty Pryde and a slew of surprise stars! Also includes reprinting of Ultimate Spider-Man Super Special #1 featuring an all-star artist line-up! 104 pages/54 pages of reprinted material

First off, this is a GREAT series. A prime, shining example of what a really good, mainstream superhero book can be with a unified vision, and the guiding hand of a single creator. Brian Michael Bendis IS this book, it softened when Mark Bagley jumped ship, but Bendis kept his hand on the rudder and kept it focused. When I start bitching in the next paragraph, it's got zero to do with the book itself, or the creators. This series is golden, and I'll always recommend it, unless Bendis leaves.

This issue marks the tenth anniversary of the title, but, of course, with the Editorial-mandated, dunder-headed, groaning crossover mishap known as Ultimatum, the title had been re-set to a first issue. Thing is, "Tenth Anniversary Issue #16" doesn't sound very impressive, does it? So, once again, we're gonna play "pick the issue number that will sell best, and just slap it on there." Marvel's done this crap more than a few times now, and it's such a load of BS.

It's crass and mercenary to play "wheel of numbering." You wanted a new #1 after Ultimatum, because a #1 issue spikes in sales, but then you want an impressive high number for the anniversary. Here's an idea. Number it, and stand behind your product. I know it's a piddling thing, but it's the difference between feeling like the stories are the primary consideration, and feeling like we're just human ATMs to you. Bendis writes great stories, and let's that do the talking. In fact when you re-set to #1, I heard him say, somewhere (I have no source, sorry) "it's just #132 to me."

How right he was.

Oh, and by the way...Thanks for making me buy 54 pages of material all over again.

It is nice to see that fantastic Bagley wraparound cover.

New Comic Day - 10.6.2010

Another light week.

This breeds fear in me, because I just KNOW the hammer will drop, sooner or later, and I'll have a $30 week. Which are a pain in the ass.

Batman: Odyssey #4 (of 13)

 

Written by NEAL ADAMS
Art and cover by NEAL ADAMS
1:25 Black and white variant cover by NEAL ADAMS

The fourth chapter of Neal Adams' epic Batman tale sees Bruce Wayne confronted with a terrible moment that harks back to his origin. Will this shocking episode derail Batman from his Odyssey? Guest-starring Aquaman, Deadman, Talia and Man-Bat!

Lots and lots of bitching on-line about this title. Look, there's no two ways about it, Adams is a very wordy writer. He embraces a 70's style, that can ten to over-explain things for our current "get to the point" culture. Do I wish that, maybe, he had brought in, say, Denny O'Neil for scripting? Oh, you bet your life! Yet, there's something interesting, to me, about what Adams is doing here.

The word on the street is that this is the Frank Miller/Neal Adams project that was sort of hinted at when All-Star Batman and Robin started up. I guess Frank dropped out, but the elements of his more dickish Batman are still here. It doesn't bother me, really...I find something really amusing about Miller's take on the Dark Knight. I can't help it, it makes me laugh when he's portrayed as the guy that knows everything, and gets pissy when you can't keep up.

Brightest Day #11

 

Written by GEOFF JOHNS and PETER J. TOMASI
Art by IVAN REIS, PAT GLEASON,
ARDIAN SYAF, SCOTT CLARK and JOE PRADO
Cover by DAVID FINCH and SCOTT WILLIAMS
1:10 Variant covers by IVAN REIS

Don't miss the hottest event in comics as the biweekly BRIGHTEST DAY continues with the return of the Black Lanterns! Has time run out for our resurrected heroes? Plus, you must not miss the stunning origin of the new Aqualad, the battle between Aquaman and Black Manta, and the bizarre journey of Jason Rusch and Ronnie Raymond as they delve into the inner workings of the Firestorm matrix and uncover its secret!

Yeah, yeah...I know. I said I was done with it, but, with such a light week, I figured I could give it another shot. I hold little hope. It just feels like it's dragging along like a dog with a bad leg.

New Comic Day 8.4.2010

Fairly big week here....

Batman: Odyssey #2 (of 6)

Written by NEAL ADAMS
Art by NEAL ADAMS
1:25 Sketch variant cover by NEAL ADAMS

Neal Adams's ODYSSEY ramps up as The Caped Crusader slowly but surely loses control. A dark presence lurking in the background begins pulling Bruce's strings...who is responsible? This second chapter is a tour de force of action as the greatest crime fighter on earth displays his vicious combat skills. What else can you expect? Adams's art at its best!

I know a lot of the reviews on this have been...not great. I kinda get that. this is a very, very 70's-style book, and I know a lot of the kids out there don't really "get" that. You have to read, you see, the text is as dense as Adams flat-out awesome artwork.

For myself, I'm loving every page. No, I don't quite get what's going on yet, and Adams' Batman seems to lean toward the Frank Miller A-Hole style, but the whole preview of issue #1, with a Batman wielding twin Colt automatics, played out in an extremely satisfying manner.

Do I wish Neal had rung up Denny O'Neil to do the dialogue? Sure, but, all on his own, Adams is bringing back the kind of comics I cut my teeth on, and I love it.

Brightest Day #7

Written by GEOFF JOHNS and PETER J. TOMASI
Art by IVAN REIS, PATRICK GLEASON, ARDIAN SYAF,
SCOTT CLARK and JOE PRADO
Cover by DAVID FINCH
1:10 White Lantern Variant covers by RYAN SOOK,
FERNANDO PASARIN and JOEL GOMEZ

Don't miss the hottest event in comics as BRIGHTEST DAY continues!

There can be only one who wields the White Lantern...but is it truly Deadman? And what will happen when he attempts to charge the white ring? Meanwhile, Ronnie Raymond risks everything for Firestorm, Martian Manhunter uncovers more clues about the bizarre string of murders stretching across the country, Aquaman searches for the key to the ocean's survival and the Hawks come face-to-face with the evil that lurks within the strange land known only as Hawkworld!

Ok, I think we've jumped the shark here. I still care what's going to happen, but it's really, really apparent this could've easily been a 4-issue series. Even bi-weekly, it's seemed to drone on and on, and on. Let's wrap this up, and put the events to bed for a while.

It's like I said in my SDCC wrap-up blog, specifically about the DC Town Hall panel (scroll down to the bottom), let's focus on the regular series for a while, and let "the universe" take care of itself. I could say it about both of the big two, but I am, finally, tired of having every monthly book tie into each other, and connect to some larger concept that never ends up as cool as you think it'll be.

I mean, does ANYONE really, really care about "The Heroic Age" or "Brightest Day" right now? Or are we just feeling like we HAVE to be interested, because of our love of the respective universes? The individual boos are starting to suffer, they don't feel like full stories, just snippits that don't seem to connect I mean...exactly how is the Flash series tying into any of this?

Give it a rest for a while, guys.

Jonah Hex #58

Written by JUSTIN GRAY and JIMMY PALMIOTTI
Art and cover by GIANCARLO CARACUZZO

When you live the kind of life that Jonah Hex has, you learn that every bullet tells a story. This is one of those stories – one of betrayal, violence and immeasurable greed! Featuring the art of rising star Giancarlo Caracuzzo (Cable)!

The absolute perfect cure for crossover-itis. This book, as I have said time and time, and time again, is damn near perfect. the done-in-one style provides so much freedom. Maybe a story won't pop like the creatives thought it might, or an artist doesn't quite mesh with the material...BAM! Another chance next month!

DC and Marvel ought to take a good long look at why this book is looked at so favorable by so many people. It's because it's a respite from the overwhelming baggage of continuity. Maybe it's not the greatest selling thing out there (certainly not for lack of me trying), but nobody knows who Hex is! (The movie certainly didn't help, but then, the movie wasn't REALLY Jonah Hex, now was it?) Try this format with Batman, or Green Lantern, and it will sell, and the work will be strong.

Red Robin #15

Written by FABIAN NICIEZA
Art and cover by MARCUS TO and RAY MCCARTHY

With Tim Drake targeted for assassination, will Red Robin have to eliminate his secret identity? Or is it all part of an elaborate ruse to draw out the lethal Egyptian assassin known as Scarab and get Vicki Vale off his trail?

Over here on the other hand, we have a book that's deeply rooted in continuity, but doesn't get bogged down in it. Why? Because, after a few false starts, they zeroed in on exactly what Tim Drake's place in the DCU and the Bat-verse would be, and they've left that area alone for him to play in. You can easily read Red Robin without the other Bat-books. If you do read the other books, it just fills in gaps. The creative team gives you a full story that is informed and deepened by what's happening in Batman or Detective (Batman and Robin is off in it's own little Morrison-world), but doesn't rely on them. A very solid read, month-in, month-out.

Captain America #608

COVER BY: Marko Djurdjevic
WRITER: ED BRUBAKER/SEAN MCKEEVER
PENCILS: FILIPE DANIEL/MORENO DE ANDRADE/BUTCH GUICE
INKS: BUTCH GUICE
COLORED BY: DEAN V. WHITE
LETTERED BY: NEUROTIC CARTOONIST, INC|NEUROTIC CARTOONIST, INC

Baron Zemo takes his battle against the new Captain America to a new and terrifying level. And neither Bucky Barnes, or the readers will believe Zemo's last page revelation! By the senses-shattering team of Ed Brubaker and Butch Guice!

*sigh*

PUT STEVE ROGERS BACK IN THE SUIT!!!!

We all know you'll do it before next Summer, when that little movie comes out, so quit jerking us around. Although, I have to admit this whole current storyline feel like it might be leading to a bad end for Bucky Barnes. I mean, don't get me wrong, I like Bucky as a character, and as Cap he was interesting, but this has just gone on too long.

Ultimate Comics Avengers 2 #6

COVER BY: LEINIL FRANCIS YU
WRITER: MARK MILLAR
PENCILS: LEINIL FRANCIS YU
INKS: GERRY ALANGUILAN
COLORED BY: DAVE MCCAIG
LETTERED BY: NEUROTIC CARTOONIST, INC

ULTIMATE COMICS AVENGERS 2 #6 (of 6) Written by MARK MILLAR Pencils & Cover by LEINIL FRANCIS YU The Avengers are caught in the middle as Ghost Rider and the demonically powered Vice-President Blackthorne go head-to-flaming-head! What hope do Hawkeye, Punisher, and the new Hulk have against Satan's soldiers? Find out as best-selling creators MARK MILLAR (CIVIL WAR, KICK-ASS) and LEINIL FRANCIS YU (SECRET INVASION) bring this story to a fiery finish!

I'm finally ready to admit that I generally think Mark Millar is a hack. This series is completely boneheaded and makes zero impact on the reader. Hell, I thought it was only 4 issues long, because, well, the plotting never seems to indicate we're getting anywhere.

Y'know what I was saying in that SDCC blog about chasing the "cool," instead of just telling solid stories about heroism and playing your characters for all they're worth? Millar's the poster boy for the "cool" moment that ultimately, means bupkis. Vice-President Blackthorne erupting from the White House as an agent of Satan in issue #5 of this title? Cool, but ultimately empty, because, frankly...I don't care about anyone in the book. They're all blank tools to create "cool" moments, and nothing else.

He wrote the quite wonderful Red Son, and then just went on a spree of garbage (Although, I will admit a fondness for the first two Ultimates mini-series). The only question he seems to ask when working with established characters is "how much can I pull them into the mud?" and when doing creator-owned new work, "how fast can I sell this to Hollywood?" He's like a one-man crusade to make comics irrelevant, just a "idea shop" for movie producers.

I had a conversation with a creator, who recently moved his title to Image, a couple of years ago, and we were talking about the Watchmen movie. We were talking about the pros and cons of Zach Snyder's uber-literal (in my mind overly so) method of adapting the book to film. That led to talking about the sad fact that, to many "comic" fans today, nothing, no book, no graphic novel, really matters until they make it into a movie.

The medium of comics has just become a stepping stone to a "bigger and better deal." To me, Mark Millar is the personification of that mindset. Yeah, sure comics have become more recognized as a cultural force, but, seemingly, only as source material for a "real" art form like movies or TV.

Which is not to say I have a problem with selling rights to your concept to somebody with deep pockets. This particular creator had sold the movie rights for his own book, but it's also very, very clear that the book is his passion. He's not gonna stop doing it, he's not gonna hand it off to other and just cash checks. Selling the concept to Hollywood wasn't the end goal, it was a nice bonus.

When I pick up Millar's Kick-Ass, and I can see, from issue one, how it's just a pitch for a movie. I just get sad. Sad because this is a guy considered a "star" comic-book creator now, and I wish he'd just have more faith in the medium as an end unto itself.

I mean, ask yourself...do you think if Kick-Ass hadn't made it to film, we'd ever see a sequel? Even at that, I have my doubts. Was Millar's commitment to his characters, or his deal?