This Week's Must-Read Comic Book Reviews - 25/07/2024
Get ready, comic book fans! We've got the latest and greatest reviews of this week's hottest new releases from Marvel, DC, Image, and more. Dive into the thrilling worlds of your favourite heroes and discover new favourites with our expert insights.
Get ready, comic book fans! We’ve got the latest and greatest reviews of this week’s hottest new releases. Dive into the thrilling worlds of your favourite heroes and discover new favourites with our expert insights.
ABSOLUTE POWER: ORIGINS #1
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Amanda Waller's origin story is presented as a gripping mirror to Bruce Wayne's journey. This debut issue of "Absolute Power" provides a fascinating look at Waller’s rise and is a strong start to the mini-series, showcasing her transformation with a refreshing depth.
DETECTIVE COMICS #1087
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Batman and unlikely allies like Mr. Freeze and Two-Face unite to take on the Orghams. The dynamic between Batman and Azrael is a highlight, thanks to Francesco Francavilla’s fantastic artwork, adding depth to the Gotham underworld.
THE FLASH #11
⭐️⭐️⭐️½
This issue splits its focus between Wally's hallucinatory experiences and his family's efforts to organise against a new threat. Ramón Pérez’s art effectively contrasts Wally’s shifting consciousness with more grounded scenes, though the pacing feels slow as the series sets up future events.
HARLEY QUINN #42
⭐️⭐️
Harley Quinn #42 attempts a team-up with Robin that centres around a discussion of bisexuality while tackling Freeze. The issue feels bogged down by its verbose nature and seems to tread water with its ongoing plot, though the backup story offers some redeeming moments.
ZATANNA: BRING DOWN THE HOUSE #2
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Zatanna battles demons and unravels a deeper magical mystery in this electrifying issue. Javier Rodríguez’s artwork enhances the complex narrative with stunning visuals, blending excitement, humour, and terror seamlessly.
CAPTAIN AMERICA #11
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Straczynski’s take on Captain America explores supernatural themes but feels restrained in its execution. While Saiz's art shines in moments, the story's concept sometimes overshadows character development.
DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE: WWIII #3
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Joe Kelly delivers an engaging story with Deadpool and Wolverine, elevated by Adam Kubert’s striking line art. The issue features impressive two-page splashes and continues to entertain with its dynamic artwork.
NYX #1
⭐️⭐️⭐️½
NYX #1 introduces Marvel’s new mutant team with a blend of charm and restraint. The issue sets up intriguing character dynamics but doesn’t fully captivate or reinvent the wheel, leaving room for growth in future issues.
STRANGE ACADEMY: BLOOD HUNT #3
⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Strange Academy kids wrap up their arc with some character development and future implications. The setup for future events is promising, particularly with the upcoming Agatha All Along storyline.
ULTIMATE BLACK PANTHER #6
⭐️⭐️⭐️½
Bryan Hill’s Ultimate Black Panther approaches a unique angle but doesn’t fully commit to a radical reinvention. Carlos Nieto’s guest art provides a smooth visual transition, maintaining consistency despite changes.
VENOM: SEPARATION ANXIETY #3
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Gerardo Sandoval’s artwork stands out with unique layouts and dynamic panelling, though the story’s heavy dialogue sometimes detracts from the visual strength. An interesting plot idea is somewhat overshadowed by its presentation.
WOLVERINE: BLOOD HUNT #4
⭐️⭐️⭐️½
The Blood Hunt tie-in concludes with a satisfying resolution. Waltz’s script efficiently wraps up the story, and Ryp’s artwork, complemented by Guru-eFX’s colours, provides a strong visual finish.
BLOOD SQUAD SEVEN #3
⭐️
Blood Squad Seven’s latest issue struggles with inconsistent characterisation and troubling themes. The story’s attempts at homage fall flat, and the execution of violence against women detracts significantly from the overall experience.
UNIVERSAL MONSTERS: CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON LIVES! #4
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This issue of Universal Monsters delivers a powerful horror experience with effective use of visual and thematic elements. Despite some rushed pacing, the story’s emotional weight and haunting artwork make it a standout in 2024’s horror comics.
BLOW AWAY #4
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Brynne’s investigation reaches a turning point, though the transition between her backstory and current events feels abrupt. The eerie atmosphere remains strong, but characterisation issues create a sense of unevenness.
GODZILLA VS. MIGHTY MORPHIN POWER RANGERS II #4
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The action ramps up to new heights in this thrilling issue, with Cullen Bunn’s enthusiasm and Baldemar Rivas’s vibrant artwork making it a must-read. The absence of Godzilla is noted, but the spotlight on other Kaiju is entertaining and epic.
HELLO DARKNESS #1
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This anthology collects diverse and chilling horror tales, showcasing the talent of creators like Garth Ennis and Becky Cloonan. With a range of styles and themes, it’s a compelling addition to the horror genre and a must-read for fans.
MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE: REVOLUTION #3
⭐️⭐️⭐️
The issue’s final page promises exciting developments, though the narrative suffers from cumbersome dialogue and inconsistent pacing. The artwork shines in moments of transformation, but the overall story lacks cohesion.
MIGHTY MORPHIN POWER RANGERS #122
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Melissa Flores delivers emotional depth and thrilling action in this penultimate issue, with standout art by Simona Di Gianfelice and dynamic colour work. The character evolution is evident, setting the stage for a gripping finale.
SOMETHING IS KILLING THE CHILDREN #39
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
James Tynion IV delivers another stellar issue, offering a raw and relatable glimpse into Erica Slaughter’s world. The powerful artwork by Werther Dell’Edera and Miquel Muerto amplifies the emotional weight, making this arc a standout.
TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES #1
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Aaron and Jones offer a nostalgic yet fresh take on the TMNT universe, blending classic elements with new accessibility for readers. This issue successfully balances respect for the original series with modern storytelling.
UNCANNY VALLEY #4
⭐️⭐️⭐️
The pace picks up with significant character interactions and background on Oliver’s origins. While the cartoonish art style makes some scenes feel less serious, the issue hints at intriguing developments as the series progresses.